This project explores mental health disparities among trans and gender diverse (TGD) individuals, with a particular focus on the impacts of access to gender-affirming healthcare. The project comprises four studies: a survey examining the relationship between access to care and wellbeing; qualitative interviews with intersectionally diverse TGD individuals; a study of psychiatrists' engagement with gender-affirming care; and international policy analysis. This work builds on a community forum and report that informed state-level advocacy.
Funding: Queensland Mental Health Commission (99 984.37).
This qualitative study investigates the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ older adults, particularly those who are First Nations, live in rural or remote areas, have a disability, are CALD, living with HIV, or trans and gender dievrse, as they access aged care services. It aims to inform inclusive policy and training practices. The project is conducted in collaboration with four community organisations and guided by a Community Advisory Group (CAG)
Funding: Hal Kendig Research Development Scheme, Australian Association of Gerontology ($24 996.06).
This project examines the experiences of TGD individuals living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain. It includes a qualitative exploration of lived experiences followed by a modified Delphi study to develop an inclusive healthcare framework. The research involves interdisciplinary professionals and lived-experience community members.
Funding: Queensland Sexual Health Fund ($78 160.09).
This project explores the barriers and facilitators to initiating sexual health conversations in neurorehabilitation settings, such as for patients recovering from stroke or traumatic brain injury. It is a multidisciplinary collaboration with academic and clinical partners from multiple universities and health districts.
Funding: Sothern Cross University Faculty of Health Research Support Grant ($9 975.81)
This program of research addresses a critical gap in sexual healthcare for LGBTQIA+ cancer survivors. It includes a systematic review aimed at identifying barriers to care and to identify priority areas. This area is identified as a priority due to the significant lack of existing research and training.
Funding: N/A
This project investigates how intentionally spending time alone can enhance wellbeing and reduce loneliness, particularly among individuals with anxious or avoidant attachment styles. Drawing on self-determination theory and recent evidence linking self-determined solitude to mental health, it uses a co-design approach with lived-experience participants to develop a brief, theory-based online intervention. The project aims to identify mechanisms through which autonomy, competence, and relatedness influence solitude motivation and loneliness reduction. It will pilot and evaluate this intervention to inform scalable, evidence-based strategies that support healthier relationships with solitude and connection in at-risk populations
Funding: Griffith University Centre for Mental Health ($10 000)
