Winner of the Victorian Rural Health Award for Consumer Panel Contribution
Sally Fraser is an active and respected consumer leader within Australia’s first Rural Health Consumer Panel, assisting La Trobe University researchers in gaining a deeper understanding of the health issues faced by rural and regional communities.
Living in a regional area herself, Sally understands firsthand the challenges rural Australians face accessing quality health care. This personal experience fuels her passionate advocacy for ensuring rural voices are central to shaping health research and policy.
“Being part of the Rural Health Consumer Panel Advisory Committee has allowed me to ensure the voices of rural people are heard loud and clear in health research. It’s rewarding to see how lived experience can shape real change in services that matter to our communities.” said Sally.
“It’s been an interesting and meaningful journey for me - from those early days with just a few panel members to now seeing our group grow to over 300 members across rural communities nationwide. The group includes youth to those with extensive expertise,” said Sally.
“It’s a great opportunity to contribute - from participating in research projects and workshops to helping with community grants and now joining the RISE4 skin cancer project hoping to enhance the provision of improved skin cancer services for consumers across all of the Loddon Mallee Region.”
Sally Fraser’s work exemplifies the power of consumer leadership in driving rural health equity. Her outstanding contribution serves as an inspiration for communities and researchers alike.
“Sally’s lived experience and dedication make her an invaluable leader in rural health research. Her advocacy ensures research stays relevant and respectful, ultimately benefiting those who need it most,” said Dr Fiona Dangerfield, Violet Vines Marshman Centre Rural Health, at La Trobe Rural Health School (LRHS).
The Rural Health Consumer Panel — Amplifying Rural Voices Nationwide
An Australian first, the Rural Health Consumer Panel is a powerful example of genuine community engagement, ensuring rural voices shape health research that truly matters. Since its launch by the Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research in May 2022, this panel supports researchers in understanding the unique challenges faced by rural and regional Australians. The panel ensures research initiatives address rural health inequities and create health improvements for people where they’re needed most.
