As part of the three-year project, Yvonne Burns will develop a data platform that collects and stores accurate, consistent and reliable data – essential for supporting staff, tailoring services and enhancing client outcomes long-term.
Dr Corina Modderman from the La Trobe Rural Health School said teaming up with a highly respected community-based agency like FamilyCare was a valuable opportunity for both organisations. Dr Modderman will be supervising the three-year project together with Associate Professor Evelien Spelten.
“The Industry PhD program is incredibly rewarding because it gives our researchers an opportunity to address a real-world challenge that is unique to a particular organisation,” Dr Modderman said.
“With Yvonne’s help, FamilyCare will be well-placed to improve their data collection and evaluation techniques and, ultimately, perform the important work they do in the community to the highest possible standard.”
CEO at FamilyCare, David Tennant, said the project will help the organisation realise its vision for strong families and communities.
“The best community service organisations are those whose work is informed by community need. It might seem simple, but gathering consistent, reliable data is always a challenge,” Mr Tennant said.
“We’re excited to leverage La Trobe’s strong research capabilities and resources to develop a really important piece of infrastructure that will help make us more effective at what we do.”
Ms Burns is grateful for the opportunity to apply her unique skills and experience to an important local project.
“I have a long history in social work, and am incredibly passionate about transforming the system from the inside out. The aim is to enable FamilyCare staff to see their impact more easily, and tailor their services accordingly,” Ms Burns said.
“I can’t wait to embark on this wonderful opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people that rely on these vital services every day.”
The Industry PhD has been funded by The Bradshaw Family Research Initiative. The Bradshaw Family are passionate and prominent philanthropists that place value on the local community and its people.
Media officer: Madeline Garisto, E: madeline.walker@latrobe.edu.au M: 0487 448 734
