Rohit Sharma is one of UWA’s most recent graduates, having completed his Master of Business Analytics mid-2025. After gaining insights into how data informs development efforts in regional WA communities through a McCusker Centre for Citizenship internship, he is setting out in his career with a role with the Peel Development Commission.
“My time at UWA laid a really solid foundation for my career; through my coursework, I developed strong analytical skills, especially in working with data, statistics, and digital tools like Power BI and Tableau which I am now using almost on daily basis. I also learned how to approach complex problems with a critical and solutions-focused mindset, which is essential when you're dealing with real-world regional challenges,” Rohit said.
“Last year I got the opportunity to work with the Gascoyne Development Commission as a Tourism Data Analyst Intern, based in Carnarvon. The internship through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship really sparked my passion for working in the public sector, especially in regional areas where the impact of good policy and data driven planning is so visible. It truly brought everything together.
“That hands-on experience with the Gascoyne Development Commission gave me a clear understanding of how data and policy intersect, and how important it is to present insights in a way that supports community development. I got the chance to work on meaningful projects, engage with regional stakeholders, and even explore Aboriginal culture and tourism data, all of which helped me see the bigger picture of regional development,” he said.
With his final exams wrapped up, Rohit started his full-time role as a Regional Development Officer with the Peel Development Commission in June, a role in which he’s keeping up with trends right across WA.
“My work now is supporting regional development not just in the Peel region, but throughout broader regional WA. I am working with my manager to analyse and manage datasets covering all regions of the State, which helps us understand key trends in population, housing, the economy, employment, and more,” Rohit explained.
“A big part of my role involves transforming raw data into meaningful insights that can guide policy, investment, and community programs. With my knowledge of technical tools, I am building dashboards, visualisations, and reports that are both user-friendly and impactful. We also work on identifying data gaps and ensuring decision-makers have access to reliable, evidence-based information. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work we do supports regional communities and helps shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for WA.”
For Rohit, a UWA journey including the McCusker Centre internship has made an impact beyond his employability.
“Working in regional development involves engaging with people from all walks of life, and these experiences taught me how to listen, be open-minded, and consider things from different perspectives. The internship made me much more socially aware. Seeing firsthand the challenges and opportunities in regional communities, particularly in areas like housing, workforce, and access to services, gave me a deeper appreciation for the importance of equity and inclusive development. It shifted my mindset from just ‘doing a job’ to asking, ‘how can my work make a difference?’
“If the work I do can make someone’s life a little easier or help improve how things run behind the scenes, then I feel like I’m on the right path. I just want to keep learning, growing, and doing my part to make the world a better place.”
Rohit offered one piece of advice for students, based on his experience:
“Make the most of every opportunity, even if it feels small. Ask questions, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. During my internship, I didn’t know exactly where it would lead, but I gave it my full effort and that experience opened doors I didn’t expect.”
The Gascoyne Development Commission and Peel Development Commission are strategic partners of the McCusker Centre for Citizenship at UWA, hosting student interns and promoting the Centre’s internship program in their regions.