In a powerful demonstration of education meeting industry, first-year undergraduate students have presented innovative digital solutions aimed at improving insurance literacy among young people.
The initiative is part of CFE’s BSB105 Future Enterprise unit, which connects students with real-world partners to solve complex, contemporary business challenges. This semester, six standout student teams were selected to present their recommendations to the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC), focusing on increasing awareness and understanding of Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance – a topic that was unfamiliar to nearly all students at the start of the course.
“Almost 100% of students had never heard of MAIC, and most didn’t know CTP insurance existed,” said course coordinator, Associate Professor Paula Dootson. “This project was about bridging that gap through creative, targeted digital engagement.”
The student-led solutions revealed a thoughtful and strategic approach to engaging young audiences. Common themes emerged across the presentations, reflecting a deep understanding of both digital behaviour and the insurance landscape:
- Platform relevance: Students emphasised the importance of meeting young people where they already are—on social media platforms, gaming environments, and mobile apps. By embedding insurance messaging into familiar digital spaces, the solutions aimed to reduce friction and increase receptivity.
- Timely intervention: Several teams explored the idea of introducing insurance concepts at key moments in the customer journey—such as when applying for a driver’s licence, purchasing a vehicle, or engaging with road safety campaigns. Timing, they argued, is critical to making the message stick.
- Integration with existing tools: Rather than reinventing the wheel, students proposed enhancing existing digital tools and educational programs with insurance-related content. This approach leverages established user bases and adds value without overwhelming the audience.
- Strategic partnerships: The teams identified potential collaborations with organisations that share common goals, such as road safety advocates, youth services, and educational institutions. These partnerships could amplify reach and credibility while aligning with broader public interest objectives.
- Bold thinking: True to the spirit of innovation, students were encouraged to include “moonshot” ideas—ambitious concepts that challenge conventional thinking. From gamified learning experiences to influencer-led campaigns, the presentations showcased creativity and a willingness to push boundaries.
The presentations marked a milestone in the semester, highlighting not only the students’ creativity and research skills but also the tangible value of industry-academic collaboration. The event was attended by representatives from MAIC, including Vicki Vanderent, who played a key role in facilitating the partnership and bringing former students Charlotte Willersdorf and Jack Cuddihy back into the classroom as real-world mentors.
The BSB105 Future Enterprise unit continues to serve as a dynamic platform for experiential learning, where students apply foresight, strategy, and innovation to real-world problems. The collaboration with MAIC is one of many examples of how QUT is preparing students to move confidently from the classroom to the boardroom, equipped not just with knowledge, but with the skills to make a meaningful impact.
Are you a business with a problem you want solved?
The BSB105 Future Enterprise unit serves as a dynamic platform where education and industry meet to tackle complex, real-world challenges. It’s not just an academic exercise—it’s an opportunity for business, government and industry to gain actionable, research-driven insights while building connections with the next generation of talent.
Collaborating to solve business challenges
Partnering with QUT gives organisations access to a unique talent pool of first-year business students equipped with industry-focused knowledge and innovative thinking. Students actively engage with businesses to identify pain points, uncover opportunities, and develop tailored solutions. For businesses, this collaborative model is an excellent way to gain diverse, fresh perspectives that can drive meaningful progress.
Interested in partnering with QUT?
If you’re a business looking to explore opportunities for collaboration, get in touch with QUT’s Future Enterprise team today. Programs like BSB105 aren’t just about enhancing student outcomes; they’re about enhancing industry outcomes. When academia and industry work together, the benefits are exponential – recruiting smarter, innovating faster, and growing stronger.
The students of today are your decision-makers of tomorrow. Will your business be part of their story? Collaborate with the BSB105 team to spark innovation, solve complex problems, and shape the future of your industry.
Email future.enterprise@qut.edu.au to find out more.
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Find out more about the BSB105 Future Enterprise Unit