Ashton is an applied economist whose areas of expertise include forecasting, policy analysis, and the economics of well-being. He has successfully led and contributed to numerous projects addressing economic and social challenges, including exploring the benefits of ageing-in-place and modelling local economic development and recovery. He has collaborated widely with NGOs, government departments, and businesses, including the Brotherhood of St Laurence, ATO, and ANZ. Additionally, he has worked extensively with peers across disciplines from various locations.
Throughout his career, he has been appointed to and carried out various leadership roles, including Head of the Economics Department and manager of research and coursework programs across various locations. Recent teaching includes the economics of blockchain and, more generally, exploring digital solutions to industry challenges. He currently serves his profession and the wider community as a council member of the Economics Society (Victorian Branch).
Applied Economics and Econometrics, Digital Economy Disruption including the impact of Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies.
Applied Economics, Digital Disruption, Financial Wellbeing, Policy Impact on Households, Urban and Regional Planning, Ageing-in-Place.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.