Good Health and Wellbeing
Promoting physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing for all individuals and across all stages of life is key to the creation of inclusive, equitable, and prosperous societies.
Through our research, partnerships and policies, we are contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing.
Our research has led to improved patient and public health outcomes, innovative new spin out companies and health technologies, and reduced health inequalities for priority population groups.
Our policies, operations and teaching promote physical, mental and emotional health and wellbeing for our staff, students and communities.
LOCAL AND GLOBAL IMPACT - OUR RESEARCH CONTRIBUTING TO SDG 3: GOOD HEALTH AND WELLBEING
See below for measurable, demonstrable, and beneficial change occurring beyond the university as a result of our research
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Baggarrook Yurrongi
Baggarrook Yurrongi
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ARCSHS survey data informs public health prevention strategies in South Australia
ARCSHS survey data informs public health prevention strategies in South Australia
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The Young Stroke Service
The Young Stroke Service
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Celebrity alcohol ads slip into teens’ Insta feeds, new study
Celebrity alcohol ads slip into teens’ Insta feeds, new study
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’Footprint of Death’ gives new clues to cell life
’Footprint of Death’ gives new clues to cell life
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La Trobe, Kangan Institute to transform health
La Trobe, Kangan Institute to transform health
Promoting health and wellbeing across our operations
La Trobe University forges strong local partnerships with Victorian health services. The Academic Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH) has partnerships with Alfred Health, Austin Health, Eastern Health, Northern Health, Mercy Health, Royal Melbourne, the Women's and Healthscope for clinical education, research, and workforce development.
At the national level, La Trobe collaborates with prominent research institutes like the Florey Institute, Baker Institute, and others, and leads several research centres addressing public health, ageing, and disability that improve diagnostics, therapeutics and clinical outcomes across a range of diseases, as well as research centres focussed on building clinical capability and policy expertise to enhance individual and community wellbeing, reduce disease, and create equitable health solutions for all.
Internationally, La Trobe partners with global agencies and universities—through grants, WHO-linked leadership programs, and joint PhD programs—to address global health challenges. The Department of Community and Clinical Health has partnerships across Australia, Vietnam, Germany, the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, whilst the Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) has over 150 collaborations from 14 different countries.
La Trobe University delivers community-based health and wellbeing initiatives through the John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research, supporting rural and regional communities, including older people who may experience barriers to accessing health, social and community services.
Programs such as Indigo 4Ms Age-Friendly Health Care and Building skills for rural positive ageing work with older people, local health services and community organisations across north-east Victoria to strengthen health literacy, promote healthy ageing and improve access to age-friendly care. Activities include community-based resources and education focused on what matters to older people, medication, mobility and mental wellbeing.
Formative research on exploring the understanding and experiences of accessing dementia care among South Asian migrants living in Australia
Researchers: Dr Shahinoor Akter, Dr Tshepo Rasekaba, & Professor Irene Blackberry.
South Asian migrants are at a higher risk of dementia in Australia. The knowledge of dementia and experiences of accessing dementia care among this cohort is limited. The study explores what factors influence their access to dementia care services. By employing a mixed-method approach, we conducting a systematic review of literature to examine enablers and barriers to accessing dementia care among South Asian migrants in high-income countries, guided by behavioural change theory. We are also conducting an online cross-sectional survey to assess knowledge and attitudes among South Asian adults towards dementia care and their ability to access pertinent care support services in Australia. The study outcomes will lay the foundation to develop culturally tailored dementia care intervention targeting South Asian migrant population.
Funder: Care Economy Research Institute (CERI) Industry Partner Development grant 2025-26.
We facilitate programs and classes for local residents, schools, clubs and user groups in the local communities we serve - Melbourne's North and Bendigo. We offer many membership options, facilities and services to all members of the public, including public membership of La Trobe sports clubs which includes free access to our sports facilities.
For more information, see La Trobe Sport.
La Trobe University provides students with free access to sexual and reproductive health information, education, and core care. The on-campus La Trobe Medical Centre offers bulk-billed GP services for students (including international students with OSHC), covering contraceptive and sexual-health consultations.
La Trobe’s sexual health resource hub provides free guidance on contraception, STI testing, relationships and referrals.
La Trobe University actively promotes good mental health and provides students with free support services and signposting to professional care. The Health, Wellbeing and Inclusion Division delivers campaigns, workshops, and self-help resources to strengthen resilience, stress management, and overall wellbeing.
Students can access free, confidential counselling on campus and online, offering short-term therapy, crisis support, and referrals where needed. The University’s Safer Community service addresses concerns such as bullying, harassment, or family violence, and provides pathways to mental health care.
Together, these programs ensure that students are supported and encouraged to prioritise their mental health. For more information on our counselling service, visit About our counselling service.
La Trobe University has maintained a smoke-free environment since 31 May 2014 as part of its commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of students, staff and visitors.
Under the University’s Health and Safety Procedure – Smoke Free Environment, smoking and vaping are prohibited across University buildings, residences, grounds and University-operated vehicles, except within a small number of designated smoking areas. The procedure applies across La Trobe campuses and research areas and supports a healthier environment in which to work, study and live.
View the Health and Safety Procedure - Smoke Free Environment
Learn more about Smoke Free La Trobe
La Trobe University actively promotes good mental health for staff and provides access to free mental health support. The university offers a comprehensive approach to workplace mental health and wellbeing, integrating initiatives that protect, promote, and support mental health.
Visit Staff Health and Wellbeing for more information.