Megan’s work life has
been a combination of research, hands-on health promotion with drug
users, and capacity building among service providers in the area of
drugs and hepatitis C education. She has often worked at the same
time in community-based organisations and the School of Population
Health, The University of Queensland, and is most motivated by
integrating research and on-the-ground practice. This largely
builds on her Bachelor of Social Science degree majoring in human
services and Graduate Certificate in Applied Social
Research.
Megan is currently
an Associate Lecturer in the Indigenous Health Unit, School
of Population Health, University of Queensland. This position
focuses on undergraduate teaching, developing a research program
and participating in community service. She is currently establishing a
research higher degree program focusing on alcohol and drug use
post-prison release by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Megan is also evaluating the Lotus Glen Indigenous Peer Education
Project funded by Queensland Corrective Services and Queensland
Health.
Megan’s father’s family includes descendants of the
Wiradjuri people of Mudgee in central New South Wales, and her
mother’s family came from England after World War II. Her
family story includes a British brigadier who worked for the United
Nations, a bushranger, the effects of the Stolen Generation, a
feminist from the 1940s, death, boats and rock'n'roll … a
wonderful mix that even extends to her work life!
Abstract
Alcohol and drug use by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
post-prison release: An analysis of needs, and implications for
policy and practice.
Please note: This proposed project is still under
development.
The proposed study begins with narrative biographies of twelve
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders who have been out of prison
for at least a couple of years. With permission, their stories will
be developed into a resource and shared through an NHMRC-funded
project “Passports to Better Health” being undertaken
by Dr Stuart Kinner and others in the School of Population Health.
Megan will collaborate on this project, which, in short, is a
randomised-controlled trial investigating the experiences of 1500
people in Queensland after their release from prison.
Megan proposes to analyse data specifically about alcohol and
drug use by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and to further
clarify findings through consultation and focus group discussions
with families and communities. This will be an initial opportunity
to develop a picture of the needs of the target group, and how best
to address them in policy and practice in the future.
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