Building on SANE’s previous work with The University of Melbourne to develop and launch the National Stigma Report Card – a flagship study which identified how stigma and discrimination affect people living with complex mental health issues – Professor Reavley will deliver the next phase of SANE’s important work in stigma reduction, looking at increasing inclusion in key areas such as employment.
In addition to overseeing SANE’s research projects and Fellowships, Professor Reavley will also lead research to inform SANE’s expanded national digital services, which received record funding in the May federal budget to reach more people in need in more places nationally, including the 154,000 Australians missing out on vital psychosocial supports each year.
SANE CEO, Rachel Green, said she was excited by the possibilities SANE’s new partnership with Melbourne University and Professor Reavley brings.
“SANE is committed to leading innovative research, and to driving the change needed to end the structural stigma and discrimination faced by thousands of Australians living with complex mental health needs, and our work towards this important goal will be greatly elevated with the appointment of Professor Nicola Reavley as our Research Director.
“We are inspired by Professor Reavley’s expertise, commitment and dedication to pursuing visionary research and positive outcomes for our lived experience community, and as Australia’s preeminent expert on stigma and discrimination towards people with complex mental health issues, we look forward to delivering meaningful impact by creating awareness, engagement and action to reduce and end stigma nationally.”
Speaking of her appointment as SANE’s new Research Director, Professor Reavley said,
“I am really delighted to be able to contribute to the work of SANE. As a population mental health researcher, I am always seeking ways for my research to have a real impact on the lives of people living with mental health issues. With SANE’s strong history of support and advocacy and a commitment to research and evidence-based practice, I am really looking forward to a productive collaboration!”
About Professor Nicola Reavley
Professor Nicola Reavley is a Principal Research Fellow and Deputy Director of the Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health at the University of Melbourne. Her research focuses on population monitoring and interventions in the area of mental health literacy, stigma and discrimination. She has received funding from several organisations, including the National Health and Medical Research Council, Beyond Blue and Australia Rotary Health, and has authored over 200 publications.