Category Griffith University   Show all

  • Financial Toxicity and Quality of Life

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    Brain Cancer and the Hidden Cost Financial Toxicity and Quality of Life. A powerful graphic of a brain with symbolic financial icons—e.g., coins, receipts, stress symbols and magnifying glass over a brain cancer. The Griffith University logo features at the top.May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month Let’s talk about more than just treatment. Brain tumour survivors face a hidden toll: financial toxicity. Vector image of a man with magnifying glass looking inside a brain which has an illuminated light globe with a dollar sign. Griffith University logo bottom leftMay marks Brain Cancer Awareness Month—a time to spotlight not only the medical but also the financial and emotional toll of brain tumours.

    New honours research by Jasmine Luttrell reveals that over half of brain tumour survivors report significant financial hardship, which is closely linked to increased anxiety and reduced quality of life.

    This study, led by Prof. Tamara Ownsworth was a NHMRC funded collaboration between Griffith University, Metro South Health (Radiation Oncology) and the Cancer Council Queensland.

    Over 50% of survivors report significant financial hardship— linked to higher anxiety and lower quality of life. An infographic image to show "50%" visually, with 5/10 figures shaded. And a woman sitting looking worried, with a chain anchoring her to a brain graphic. There are red lightening bolts coming from her head and a speech bubble with red dollar signs. Griffith University logo bottom left.

    What is financial toxicity? Illustrations for each point. 💸 Out-of-pocket costs (bag of money) 🚌 Transport, parking (plane, train, taxi, car) 🕒 Lost income from caregiving (wallet with a magnifying glass) 🏦 Depleted savings or debt (debt cycle image with red and black arrows with a pile of dollar notes and coins).

    What we found: • People with more aggressive tumours reported more financial distress • Greater financial burden = higher anxiety • Anxiety partially explains reduced quality of life Simple flow diagram with text and arrows to show the relationships. Accompanied with a vector image of a brain and hand holding a magnifying glass to show a brain cancer.


    We need action. Early screening for financial strain and tailored financial advice and support could improve wellbeing. It’s time to treat the whole person—not just the tumour. Vector image showing two women talking. Griffith University logo in bottom right corner.

    🔍 Read the full study In the Journal of Cancer Survivorship By Jasmine Luttrell, Prof. Tamara Ownsworth and colleagues Griffith University | Metro South Health | Cancer Council QLD (Logos) https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11764-025-01814-4


    Find out more:

    https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/news-view/brain-cancer-financial-toxicity-and-quality-of-503


    Read the full paper in the Journal of Cancer Survivorship.

    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11764-025-01814-4

    Citation

    Luttrell, J., Lion, K., Pinkham, M. B., Collins, L. G., Ownsworth, T. The impact of financial toxicity on quality of life for survivors of primary brain tumour. Journal of Cancer Survivorship (2025).


    More Information Contact: Professor Tamara Ownsworth Research Director, The Hopkins Centre School of Applied Psychology Griffith University t.ownsworth@griffith.edu.au https://www.hopkinscentre.edu.au/news-view/brain-cancer-financial-toxicity-and-quality-of-503

  • See Me. Hear Me. Respect Me.

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    Have your say – help shape better healthcare for people with disability in Queensland.

    Griffith University researchers want to hear from people with disability and their supporters about healthcare experiences – what’s improved and what still needs to change.

    This work is part of an evaluation of the "See Me. Hear Me. Respect Me." campaign — a Queensland Health initiative co-designed with people with disability to help health professionals and the community better understand, respect, and include people with disability.

    A young woman with long wavy hair, wearing a green dress with white dots, stands confidently with arms crossed, smiling. Behind her is a colourful background featuring orange, pink, and yellow wave designs. A speech bubble above her reads, “SEE ME. HEAR ME. RESPECT ME.” Theatre mask icons and music notes appear in the background. Text below says: “See, hear and respect me for who I am.” The words “respect me” and “for who I am” are highlighted in colour. Logos at the bottom include Improving Healthcare for People with Disability, QDN (Queenslanders with Disability Network), and Queensland Government.

    You can take the survey even if you haven’t heard of the campaign.

    🕒 It takes about 15–20 minutes
    ♿ Accessible formats are available
    🎁 Go in the draw to win 1 of 3 $50 gift vouchers

    Who can do the survey?
    People aged 18+
    Living in Queensland
    A person with disability, or a carer/family member/significant other of a person with disability

    📣 Your voice matters!

    Your feedback will help improve healthcare and create more respectful, inclusive services across Queensland.

    👉 Share your experience or learn more about the survey: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/evaluation?utm_source=ehq_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ehq-Inclusive-Futures-April-Monthly-Roundup&utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=email&utm_source=ehq


    📩 More information:

    Dr Kelsey Chapman
    Research Fellow
    Griffith University
    dignityproject@griffith.edu.au

    This project is proudly supported by Queenslanders with Disability Network and the Queensland Government.

    Let’s make sure everyone feels seen, heard and respected in healthcare.


    A woman with long dark curly hair, wearing a red top, smiles at the camera. Behind her is a colourful background with orange, pink, and yellow waves. Blue icons of music notes and a smiling face appear on the left. A speech bubble at the top says, “SEE ME. HEAR ME. RESPECT ME.” In the lower section, the text reads: “Disability doesn’t define me. We are all diverse.” The words “doesn’t define” and “all” are highlighted. Logos at the bottom include Improving Healthcare for People with Disability, QDN (Queenslanders with Disability Network), and Queensland Government.

  • Voice of Queenslanders with Disability 2025

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    Navy blue tile with white text heading 'Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey'. Light blue '2025'. There are grey icons across the middle of the page of headphones, newspaper, mobile phone, chat bubbles, notepads, megaphone. Text is Survey open now! In white on navy-blue background next to light blue icon indicating a hand pointing to a form with a tick symbol. There are 5 logos across the bottom of the page for Queenslanders with Disability Network, Griffith University, The Dignity Project, Inclusive Futures, Queensland Government. Help Amplify the Voices of Queenslanders with Disability

    We are excited to announce that the Voice of Queenslanders with Disability Survey 2025 is now live! This vital research, led by The Dignity Project at Griffith University, provides an opportunity for Queenslanders with disability, their families, carers, and organisations to share their experiences, helping to shape a more inclusive and accessible future.

    We are proud to collaborate with Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN) and the Queensland Government’s Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services, and Child Safety to ensure that lived experiences are heard and inform future policies and programs.

    We would greatly appreciate your support in promoting this survey through your networks. You can help by:

    • Taking the survey: https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/hub-page/vqd
    • Sharing the survey via email, newsletters, or your social media channels
    • Sharing our social media: https://shorturl.at/0oFD6
    • Forwarding this information to any citizen researchers, colleagues, or community members who may be interested
    • Encouraging participation in alternate formats or through phone/virtual interviews

    Survey closes: Wednesday, 30 April 2025

    Accessible and alternate formats are available to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.

    We appreciate your help in spreading the word so we can reach as many voices as possible. Together, we can work towards a more inclusive Queensland.

    For more information, please contact us at inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au.

    Thank you for your support!

    Dr Kelsey Chapman
    Research Fellow
    The Dignity Project
    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability

  • Moving Beyond Awareness: A Strengths-Based Approach to Autism Support

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    April is Autism Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the diversity and contributions of Australia’s autistic community. With over 290,900 autistic individuals across the country, the conversation is evolving—moving beyond awareness toward understanding, inclusion, and meaningful action.

    On 2 April, World Autism Understanding Day (#WAUD2025), we are reminded that true inclusion starts with how we see, support, and empower autistic individuals. A growing body of research is challenging traditional models of autism assessment and support, advocating for a strengths-based approach.

    WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
    The National Autism Strategy (2025-2031)

    As Australia prepares to implement the National Autism Strategy (2025-2031), integrating research-backed, person-centered approaches like this framework is crucial. By shifting towards strengths-based assessments, we can create a more inclusive society—one where autistic individuals are supported to live the lives they choose.

    HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

    Learn & Share – Amplify research that promotes strengths-based, individualised support.

    Listen to Autistic Voices – Inclusion starts with understanding lived experience.

    Advocate for Change – Support workplaces, schools, and communities in adopting strengths-based approaches.

    Autism Awareness Month is about more than recognition—it’s about real change. By embracing research-driven, strengths-based approaches, we can build a future where every autistic person is valued and empowered.

    👉 Please share this research to help shift the conversation beyond awareness to action!

    MORE INFORMATION:

    The Hopkins Centre
    hopkinscentre@griffith.edu.au

  • Exploring Love and Disability: New Research by Dr. Marita Heck

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    Dr. Marita Heck, a young white woman with long, curly brown hair, smiles warmly at the camera. An inset features the cover of her novel, Secret Forces, depicting a man with his bare upper back facing a woman with long hair, standing against a striking horizon.Dr. Marita Heck, Adjunct Research Fellow, The Hopkins Centre

    Discover groundbreaking insights into how individuals with disability navigate intimate relationships in Dr. Marita Heck's latest study. As an Adjunct Research Fellow at The Hopkins Centre, Dr. Heck combines her extensive experience as a nurse, midwife, and Sexual Quality of Life Support Clinician to shed light on this important topic. She is also the author of Secret Forces, a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of life after a spinal cord injury.

    Read:https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/rep0000573

    For more resources and support on sexual well-being for people with disability, visit the Sex Positive Community at https://www.sexpositivecommunity.com.

    Join the conversation and help break down barriers surrounding love and disability. Share your thoughts and experiences with us!

    Citation:
    Ireland, B., Pebdani, R. N., Heck, M., Mudholkar, A., & Verdonck, M. (2024). Sex-positive sexuality post- spinal cord injury: A systematic review and qualitative metasynthesis. Rehabilitation Psychology. Advance online publication. https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/rep0000573

    More information:

    Dr Marita Heck Phd, MMid (RM), BNS (RN)
    Adjunt Research Fellow
    The Hopkins Centre
    Griffith University

    marita.heck@griffith.edu.au

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-marita-heck-phd-591957310/

  • Empowering Health Communication: Co-Designing with People with Disability

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    Montage of images from the Disability Reform Summit 2024, featuring diverse people with disability collaborating with academics and researchers to co-design innovative solutions for a more inclusive future. Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Logo (bottom right corner).

    📚 Authors: Dr Kelsey Chapman, Dr Connie Allen, Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM GAICD
    📅 Published: 9 February 2025
    📖 Journal: Journal of Health Communication
    🔗 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/10810730.2025.2462679

    How can we make health communication truly inclusive? A recent scoping review by Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability researchers explores the power of co-designing health initiatives with people with disability—not just for them.

    Key Insights:

    Inclusive Participation: Engaging people with disabilities from the outset ensures their voices shape accessible, effective health communications.

    Diverse Methods: From workshops and focus groups to participatory action research, different co-design approaches foster genuine collaboration.

    Enhanced Outcomes: Inclusive approaches improve the quality of health information, empower participants, and build trust in health initiatives.

    This research reinforces that co-design isn’t just best practice—it’s essential. When health communication is built with the community, it becomes more impactful, equitable, and transformative.

    More Information:

    Dr Kelsey Chapman
    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
    Griffith University
    k.chapman@griffith.edu.au

    Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM GAICD
    e.kendall@griffith.edu.au

    Montage of images from the Disability Reform Summit 2024, featuring diverse people with disability collaborating with academics and researchers to co-design innovative solutions for a more inclusive future. Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Logo (bottom right corner).



  • New publication: Tech-Enabled Inclusion – Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace

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    Tile 1: Tech-Enabled Inclusion Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace Authors: Dr Maria Khan, Dr Carys W Chan, Dr Hongmin (Jess) Yan and Sudong Shang. Vector graphic showing diverse people (bottom) and the Griffith University and Inclusive Futures: Reimaging Disability logos (top).

    Can social media help make workplaces more inclusive for neurodivergent employees?

    A new study by the Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW) at Griffith University, explores how social media can help create workplaces where everyone's unique way of thinking is valued. The researchers, Dr Maria Khan, Dr Carys W Chan, Dr Hongmin (Jess) Yan and Dr Sudong Shang, present a new framework that clarifies how technology could make a real difference for neurodivergent employees.

    The study explores how digital communication tools can empower neurodivergent employees (NDEs) by providing:

    • Psychological safety – A space where employees feel comfortable being their authentic selves.
    • Accessible communication – Social media allows for asynchronous interactions, reducing the pressure of real-time conversations.
    • Representation and visibility – NDEs can share their experiences, connect with peers, and advocate for workplace changes.
    • Empowered participation – Digital platforms offer new ways to engage in decision-making and collaboration.

    However, challenges remain—privacy concerns, inconsistent support, and workplace barriers still exist. Organisations must take intentional steps to leverage technology effectively, foster inclusive leadership, and understand the specific needs of neurodivergent employees.

    When inclusion is done right, everyone benefits. 🌍✨

    Read more: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hrm.22290

    More information:
    Dr Maria Khan, Research Fellow
    Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW)
    Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability
    Griffith University

    maria.khan@griffith.edu.au

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-a-khan/

    Citation:
    Khan, M., Wen Chan, X., Yan, H., & Shang, S. (2025). Tech-Enabled Inclusion: Leveraging Social Media to Empower Neurodivergent Employees in the Workplace. Human Resource Management, https://doi.org/10.1002/hrm.22290


    Can social media bridge the gap in workplace inclusion for neurodivergent employees? Photo of a neurodiverse male and female laughing and holding a tablet device. Griffith University and Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability logos (bottom right corner).


    Tile 4: Empowering Neurodivergent Employees: Representation Matters • Diverse Neurological Profiles: NDEs include individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, Tourette syndrome, and more. • Unrepresented Talent Pool: Despite their unique strengths, NDEs often face workplace barriers and undervaluation. • Valuable Workplace Contributors: NDEs bring distinct skills and perspectives that can enhance innovation and productivity.



    Tile 5: Inclusion of NDEs Vector graphic with three diverse people including one wheelchair user holding signs with the words: • Psychological Safety and Authenticity: Creating a safe space for NDEs to be their true selves. • Workgroup Involvement: Encouraging meaningful participation and collaboration. • Respect and Influence: Ensuring NDEs feel valued and included in decision making.


    Tile 6: Inclusion Pathways Vector graphic with two business people (a woman in suit and man with pants, shirt and tie) with direction signs with the words: • NDE-related • Leader-related • Peer-related


    Tile 7: Social Media (SM) Vector graphic of a hand holding a mobile device with many diverse people on the screen and the text: Benefits • Builds self-efficacy & empowerment • Enables accessible communication & connection Challenges: • Privacy & safety concerns • Inconsistent supervisory & peer support


    Tile 8: Vector graphic with five diverse people with speech bubbles and the words: To support Neurodivergent employees, organisations must: 1. Leverage social media applications effectively. 2. Understand NDE-specific needs. 3. Foster an inclusive culture through leadership.


    Tile 9: Inclusive workplaces empower everyone! Six (6) Coloured circles with the words • Foster psychological safety (image: lock and cogs) • Encourage active involvement (image: megaphone) • Promote inclusive leadership (image: staff ID badge) • Support respectful communication (image: two people talking) • Recognise diverse contributions (image: trophy) • Provide accessible resources (image: tablet and pen with letters ABC)


    Tile 10: More information Red background with text and an image of Dr Maria Khan in a circle shape – Maria is a young Pakistani woman with long dark wavy hair, wearing a dark jumper and white collared blouse. Dr. Maria Khan is a postdoctoral research fellow at Griffith University's Centre for Work, Organisation and Wellbeing (WOW) and Griffith Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability. maria.khan@griffith.edu.au https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-a-khan/


  • Celebrating Lisa Cox OAM: Advocate, Changemaker, and Trailblazer

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    A professional portrait of Lisa Cox OAM, a Caucasian woman with long, wavy blonde hair and glasses, seated and smiling confidently. She is wearing a black outfit with silver jewellery and has her chin resting on her hand in a poised manner. The background is dark, creating a striking contrast. In the bottom left corner, the Griffith University logo is visible, along with the text 'Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability’.

    Lisa Cox, a dedicated advocate for disability inclusion and a member of Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures: Reimagining Disability Engagement Council, has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division. This prestigious recognition honours her outstanding contributions to improving the lives of people with disability and advancing societal understanding of inclusion.

    A Journey of Advocacy and Resilience

    Lisa’s journey as an advocate began after experiencing a severe stroke in her early 20s, which led to multiple complications, including amputations and an acquired brain injury. These life-altering events became the foundation for her mission to challenge stereotypes about disability and promote awareness of the realities faced by people with disability.

    Through her work, Lisa has tirelessly campaigned for better representation of disability in media and advertising, accessibility improvements, and the breakdown of societal barriers. Her efforts aim to shift perceptions and create systemic change to ensure that individuals with disability are valued and included in all aspects of life.

    Championing Inclusion at Griffith University

    Since joining Griffith University’s Inclusive Futures Engagement Council in 2021, Lisa has played a pivotal role in advancing accessibility across the university. Her contributions include improving physical access, enhancing digital inclusivity, and fostering equitable learning environments for students with disability. Lisa’s involvement exemplifies the council’s mission of working alongside individuals with disability, researchers, industry leaders, and health practitioners to create a more inclusive society.

    Driving Change in Media and Advertising

    A trailblazer in inclusive media, Lisa is also a model and advocate for authentic representation of people with disability. Her work on the Media Diversity Australia Disability Reporting Handbook has set a new benchmark for respectful and accurate reporting, equipping media professionals with the tools to tell stories that reflect the diversity of our society.

    Researching Disability Representation

    Lisa’s dedication to disability advocacy extends to her academic pursuits. She is currently undertaking a PhD with Griffith University, exploring the topic: "Visibility of Disability: Exploring how the representation of disability in advertising impacts employment outcomes for people with disability." Supervised by Dr. Monique Lewis, Prof. Elizabeth Kendall AM and Dr. Marita Heck, her research seeks to uncover the influence of media portrayals on employment opportunities and societal perceptions.

    TEDx Speaker and Thought Leader

    As a TEDx speaker, Lisa has shared her insights and experiences on global platforms, inspiring audiences to reconsider preconceived notions about disability and inclusion. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences highlights her impact as a thought leader and changemaker.

    A Well-Deserved Recognition

    Lisa’s OAM is a testament to her unwavering commitment to reimagining disability and promoting inclusion in every space she touches. This award not only celebrates her tireless advocacy but also underscores the importance of her work in creating a more inclusive future for all.

    Congratulations to Lisa Cox OAM on this remarkable achievement. Her efforts continue to pave the way for a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive and be represented authentically.

    Read more in the Griffith News: https://news.griffith.edu.au/2025/01/25/australia-day-honours-awarded/

    Find out more on Lisa’s website: https://lisacox.co


  • Exciting Start to 2025 with QDRN!

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    A collage of photos showcasing the diverse membership of the Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN).

    Happy New Year! We're thrilled to bring you the first Queensland Disability Research Network (QDRN) update for 2025.


    A big thank you to everyone who expressed interest in serving on the 2025 QDRN Advisory Group and Sector Stakeholder Committee. Your support drives our mission to foster impactful disability research and inclusive collaboration.


    We’re proud to announce the members of these groups, representing diverse expertise and lived experience:


    2025 QDRN Advisory Group


    2025 QDRN Sector Stakeholder Committee


    The QDRN unites researchers, advocates, and stakeholders to advance inclusive research through quality co-design and collaboration across Queensland universities, government, and community sectors.


    Our vision? To improve the lives and participation of people with disability through sustainable, impactful research partnerships.


    Stay tuned for updates on our work throughout the year!


    To learn more or get involved, reach out to us at qdrn@griffith.edu.au or connect directly with Dr. Talitha Kingsmill at t.kingsmill@griffith.edu.au.


    Let’s make 2025 a year of transformative progress for disability inclusion and research.

    QDRN Logo: A green background featuring a white map of Queensland with location dots representing universities involved in research. Below, the text reads 'Queensland Disability Research Network' and 'Dr. Talitha Kingsmill, email: qdrn@griffith.edu.au.

  • Inclusive Futures Disability Research Writing Competition 2024

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    🌟 Celebrating Inclusive Futures and Outstanding Research! 🌟

    On this International Day of People with Disability, we’re thrilled to announce the winner of the Inclusive Futures Disability Research Writing Competition 2024—a celebration of research that reimagines a world where disability is no barrier.

    Text in the caption below.

    Judges' Choice Winner:

    Ms Casey Doherty, University of Nevada, Reno, USA
    Her paper, Reimagining Protest: Artivism in the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) Community, demonstrates how art and activism intersect to drive inclusion and understanding. Casey’s compelling narrative and accessible communication earned her the AUD$500 prize and a feature in our annual digital compendium.


    Text in the caption below.

    ✨ Short-listed entrants:

    • Mrs Rhonda Beggs, Metro South Health
    • Ms Belinda Coleman, RMIT / Aurecon
    • Sarah Fulton, Redland Hospital, Metro South Health
    • Dr Catherine Maitland, Australian Disability Network
    • Mrs Laura Ryan, University of Queensland
    • Dr Rebecca Soole, University of Queensland
    • Ms Jane Wardlaw, University of Tasmania
    • Mrs Louise White, Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University

    Communicating complex research in an accessible way, is a challenging but essential skill. This competition highlights the importance of not only advancing academic knowledge, but also ensuring it reaches those who can benefit most.

    We encourage all participants to continue honing their communication skills alongside their research. Accessible storytelling is a powerful tool for driving understanding and advancing disability inclusion.

    A heartfelt thank you to all entrants for their impactful contributions. Together, we’re breaking barriers and building a more inclusive future. 💡

    We would like to thank our sponsor The Hopkins Centre, who kindly donated the prize money, and our esteemed judges Dr Talitha Kingsmill, Dr Monique Lewis, Dr Faith Valencia-Forrester, Lisa Cox, Sara Shams and our moderator Delena Amsters.

    Interested in next year’s competition? Learn more about how your research could make a difference!

    Follow us on social media and join our Inclusive Futures Mailing List for updates:
    https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au

    Visit our Inclusive Futures Hub to read the Judges’ Choice and short listed entries.

    https://inclusivefutures.griffith.edu.au/inclusive-futures-research-writing-competition

    For more information email: inclusivefutures@griffith.edu.au