The University of New England is set to become a regional mental health research hub following the announcement of a $4.8 million Collaborative Research Network (CRN) project.

 

Along with five partners – University of NSW, Sydney, Newcastle, La Trobe and the Hunter New England Local Health Network – the new project will investigate and implement strategies to improve the education of health professionals working in regional settings.

 

UNE’s Acting Vice‐Chancellor, Professor Annabelle Duncan, said that the Commonwealth funding assisted UNE in expanding its strengths in rural health research and in delivering better mental health outcomes for regional communities.

 

“UNE’s aim is to become the nation’s university of choice for research into regional issues of global significance, and the work of the CRN will assist us in reaching this goal,” Professor Duncan said. “The research we undertake will make a positive difference to the lives of people – not in 20 years, but within 2 years.

 

"The project will tackle pressing national issues such as high rates of suicide in regional areas, disabilities and sexual health," Parliamentary Secretary for Higher Education Sharon Bird said.

 

“Left untreated, mental health can reduce the wellbeing of rural and regional communities and undermine their resilience and sustainability. “

 

Minister for Science and Research, Senator Chris Evans, said the project will lead to direct improvements in the lives of regional Australians. 

"The work done as part of this project will be critical in developing an understanding of the rural health workforce, individual self-care, disabilities, health and inclusion, as well as the capacity of biomedical science to better lead to diagnosis and treatment in regional areas," Senator Evans said.