Research is transforming dementia care in Australia and empowering First Nations people through sport, two initiatives making a real difference to Australian’s lives.
The department’s National Industry PhD Program is driving these projects forward.
The program supports PhD candidates to undertake industry-focused research projects, equipping them with the skills to translate university research into practical solutions and commercial outcomes.
Improving dementia care through research
Researchers at Flinders University in partnership with the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network are evaluating a new outreach service for dementia care to determine whether it improves outcomes and reduces hospital visits.
The project also provides an opportunity for health services to strengthen their program evaluation skills, ensuring services are effective and deliver value for money.
Professor Kate Laver at Flinders University spoke about the benefits of the project.
“Many older people are waiting in hospital for residential care, and this creates issues with flow in the system. The new program aims to address this problem,” Kate said.
“The evaluation will show whether this is a good approach or whether we need to be looking at alternative approaches. And if it’s a good approach, the research will help identify the benefits and effects.”
Enhancing sports participation for First Nations people
A new partnership between Monash University and Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative is working to boost participation of First Nations people in Australian sports.
Sport and physical activity offer significant mental and physical benefits from improving wellbeing to fostering social connection.
The project aims to not only increase the number of First Nations people taking part in sport but also ensure they stay engaged over the long-term.
CEO of the Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative and PhD student, Paul O’Neill, explains how the funding will help to reach more First Nations participants.
“The funding allows me to work on a greater scope. This opportunity will help us get the national voice of First Nations participants, whether they are elite athletes or those giving it their all, no matter what,” Paul said.
“As a CEO of an Aboriginal health service, sport in a rural setting is paramount to us. It's the fabric to our community. Making sure we are giving access to the opportunity for First Nations people to feel as safe as possible in the sport they choose for as soon as possible is something that is invaluable to our nation.”
To find out more about the program, visit: National Industry PhD Program