News and Events
Bill Budiselik
Child protection laws scrutinised
[Posted: 24 Jan 2012]
A court ruling that forced grandparents to relinquish custody of their grandson due to the grandfather’s previous sexual offence history, but allowed them to continue to care for the boy’s younger sister, highlights an anomaly in WA’s child protection laws, a Curtin study has found.
Study* co-author Bill Budiselik, of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, said the grandparents were unable to keep caring for their grandson because the grandfather was unable to obtain a ‘working with children’ card – a requirement for people who care for children under a care and protection order.
“The only reason the card was required was because the older boy was legally under the department’s protection,” Mr Budiselik said.
“The granddaughter wasn’t under the department’s protection so in law it wasn’t necessary for the grandfather to have the card for him and his wife to care for their granddaughter.”
The study was co-written with Frances Crawford of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work and Joan Squelch of the School of Business Law and Taxation.
Mr Budiselik said that, in the case examined, the newer Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act 2004 WA had trumped the state’s Children and Community Services Act. Both Acts are administered by the Department for Child Protection.
“When the mother relinquished care of the elder child, the Department for Child Protection initially placed the child in the care of the grandparents,” he explained.
“The mother then drew the department’s attention to the fact that her father had a criminal conviction for sexual assault against a child – not his grandson – from more than 20 years ago.”
Mr Budiselik said the department took out a care and protection application, removed the boy from his grandparents’ care and placed him into non-family care while it assessed the grandparents.
“A departmental psychologist then assessed the grandparents as suitable to care for the boy,” he said.
“This was all prior to the Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act coming into force, and the department placed the boy back in the care of his grandparents.”
In the meantime, the grandparents’ daughter had given birth to another child.
“In this case, the second grandchild was placed directly with the grandparents but the department didn’t take out a care and protection application, presumably because the grandparents had been assessed as suitable carers,” Mr Budiselik said.
“So, you end up with the situation of the department being obligated in law to remove one child but not believing the situation is serious enough to warrant the taking of a care and protection application in relation to a younger sibling.
“So, in law, the second child can stay there even though the law required the first child to be removed.”
Mr Budiselik said that when the Working with Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act came in to force, the elder grandchild’s existing care and protection status triggered the need for the grandparents to obtain a working with children card.
Once the new law came into being, if the grandfather could not obtain the card, the discretion the department once had to leave the boy with the grandparents vanished.
“To be a suitable carer for a child under a care and protection order you had to have the card, and the grandfather’s earlier offence meant he could not get one,” Mr Budiselik said.
Mr Budiselik said that, at the time, the department did have the option of seeking to discharge its care and protection order.
“You would have thought that it either would have done that or sought a care and protection order for the second child so the siblings would have been treated similarly,” he said.
“But, in fact, on what went to court, that hadn’t happened.
“It’s one of those cases where you suspect this was an unintended consequence of the new legislation.”
Department for Child Protection Director General Terry Murphy told Curtin News that a review of the Working With Children (Criminal Record Checking) Act was underway.
Mr Murphy said the review aimed to “determine if the already stringent legislation” could be “further strengthened”.
“The review is required by legislation and will look at the operations and effectiveness of the Act which covers the Working with Children Card,” Mr Murphy said.
“The check is already one of the most rigorous in Australia and the review will determine if there is room for improvement.”
Public submissions to the review close on February 29.
PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM PROCTOR
* Acting in the best interests of the child: a case study on the consequences of competing child protection legislation in Western Australia, Journal of Social Welfare & Family Law, Vol 32, No. 4, December 2010, pp369-379.
Professor Rosenwax congratulates Rebecca Waters and Dr Angus Buchanan
2011 Excellence in Teaching Awards
[Posted: 15 Dec 2011]
The Faculty of Health Sciences and the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work are proud to recognise:
Ms Rebecca Waters for receiving an Excellence in Teaching Award (Clinical Educator) and in the category of Programs that Enhance Learning Ward (Educational Partnerships and Collaborations with other Organisations)
Environment, Health and Disability Service Learning Partnership
Ms Rebecca Waters, Dr Angus Buchanan and Ms Heather Simmons
We congratulate you on your achievements and your ongoing contributions to student learning.
Daniel makes a difference
Daniel makes a difference
[Posted: 28 Nov 2011]
A hard-working 19-year-old young man from Mandurah is helping Curtin University to reduce its environmental footprint.
Mr Daniel Nunn, who has a developmental disability, has been working part-time at the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work at Curtin for the last five months helping to ensure that the paper waste of 60 employees is sorted and recycled once a week.
Deputy Head of the School, Associate Professor Angus Buchanan said that engaging someone with a disability had many wonderful benefits.
“Daniel is making a real contribution by raising the profile about recycling on campus," Associate Professor Buchanan said.
"He's dedicated, takes great pride in his work, and has reduced paper waste at Curtin. He has also made a lot of friends and he's an inspiring role model to us all."
Proud mum, Joanne Nunn, said that Daniel enjoyed his work at Curtin University.
"This job gives Daniel a sense of belonging, the chance to increase his confidence, learn new skills, meet new people and make a genuine difference," Ms Nunn said.
"This is one of four jobs that Daniel undertakes weekly, being employed helps him participate in community life in similar ways to his peers.
"I want to thank Tom Sokolov, Daniel’s mentor, and everyone at Curtin who has made this possible, and to the many people in our lives who have ensured that Daniel can live the life of a typical 19 year old."
Saturday 3 December is International Day of People with Disability and celebrates the contributions and achievements of people with disability in our community. For more information visit www.idpwd.com.au
Connecting Researchers and Clinicians
Special Invite - Connecting Researchers and Clinicians
[Posted: 9 Nov 2011]
This conference is to showcase and present our Academics' research and teaching practices to the School and the wider clinical community. To find out more view our flyer.
Associate Professor Dawn Bessarab
Dawn wins prominent Aboriginal and Torres Straits Island Award
[Posted: 8 Nov 2011]
Associate Professor Dawn Bessarab from the Aboriginal Health and Education Unit, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, has won a 2011 Social Worker of the Year Award.
Associate Professor Bessarab clinched the Aboriginal and Torres Straits Island category in recognition of her extraordinary determination and passion to help Aboriginal and Torres Straits Island individuals, families and communities.
Her extensive experience in the sector has ensured she is at the forefront of working and engaging with Indigenous people, especially those experiencing alcohol issues and domestic violence.
The former Curtin University graduate’s unique approach ensures she connects with Indigenous people and gets results at an individual level.
Graduates of Curtin’s Bachelor of Social Work degree were also big winners this year.
Natalie Hall, who graduated in 1986, and works for Parkerville Children and Youth Care, won the Agent of Change Award. Ida Curtois, who graduated in 1990, and is semi-retired, won the Rural and Remote Practitioner Award.
A further two social work graduates from Curtin University were finalists for 2011. Daniel Ventris, who graduated in 2008, was nominated in the Rising Star category and Sharron Ryan, who graduated in 1983, was selected for the Agent of Change category.
The award winners were announced at a distinguished evening awards ceremony held at the University Club, University of Western Australia on Monday 7 November 2011.
Curtin University is one of the major award partners of the esteemed annual event.
Associate Professor Dawn Bessarab
Social Worker of the Year Award finalists 2011 revealed
[Posted: 19 Oct 2011]
Finalists from across WA have been announced for this year’s prestigious Social Worker of the Year Awards.
The respected accolades, now in their third year, celebrate the accomplishments and commitment of social workers across the State, whose achievements are often unrecognised by the community.
This year five social work graduates from Curtin University have been nominated for the awards.
Associate Professor Dawn Bessarab, who graduated with a Bachelor of Social Work degree with honours from Curtin University in 1996, and currently works in the Aboriginal Health and Education Research Unit, Curtin Health Innovation and Research Institute, has been nominated for the Richmond Fellowship WA – Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander Award.
Natalie Hall, who graduated in 1986, and works for Parkerville Children and Youth Care, and Sharron Ryan, who graduated in 1983, and is employed by the Department for Child Protection, have been nominated for the Agent of Change Award.
Daniel Ventris, who graduated in 2008, and currently works for the Department of Health WA, has been nominated for the Rising Star Award. And Ida Curtois, who graduated in 1991, and is semi-retired has been nominated for the Rural and Remote Practitioner Award.
Curtin University is one of the major award partners. The award winners will be announced at a distinguished evening awards ceremony to be held at the University Club, University of Western Australia on Monday 7 November 2011. For more information visit - socialworkeroftheyear.com.au/
ATSI HECS Exempt Scholarships
[Posted: 23 Sep 2011]
Each year the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work offers two ATSI HECS Exempt Scholarships. To find out more view our flyer.
Julia Primerano, received an iPad2
St Brigid’s College student wins iPad2 in social work competition
[Posted: 24 Aug 2011]
A Year 12 student at St Brigid’s College has taken the first prize in a competition sponsored by Curtin University that asked participants to describe how social workers contribute to society.
Julia Primerano, from Kelmscott, received an iPad2 for detailing that social workers ensure that the rights and overall dignity of all people, no matter of age, gender, race or religion are being met.
The 17-year-old is attending Curtin University’s Open Day on Sunday 21 August and said that she had a keen interest in human and societal behaviour.
“I will be visiting the social workers at Curtin as well as the psychologists, but I haven’t quite made up my mind what I want to do,” Julia said.
“It was easy for me to describe how social workers contribute to the community. I think they are inspirational people, who, through their work, enable many people to live a fulfilled life, full of happiness and freedom.
“The iPad 2 is going to come in handy when I start my studies at university in 2012.”
The competition was promoted through Student Edge, which engages Australian students with membership rewards online.
For more information about pursuing a rewarding career as a social worker visit our Social Work course page.
Flying high with social work
[Posted: 21 Jul 2011]
The skies over Curtin University’s Bentley Campus were full of colourfully decorated kites recently as social workers from the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work explored their creative side as part of the week-long ‘Arts in Counselling’ unit.
The Kite of Life exercise was undertaken by third-year social work students to enrich and expand their skills. It also demonstrated how the use of various creative art forms could be used in practice to assist clients to reclaim and recover their lives and relationships.
Julie Dickinson, who has facilitated the unit since 1998, said that it actively involves students in exercises designed to encourage students to reflect and question critical processes and outcomes and their relevance for counselling.
“The Kite of Life exercise is used as a metaphor for life and relationships,” Julie said.
“Whilst kite making, students identified that it could be beneficial in family work with a parent and child, in schools to symbolise setting ideas free, in the area of loss and grief and in remembering and strengthening lost relationships.
“Students also engaged in other art forms such as sand play, storytelling, music and movement, drama, memory boxes and mask making. All of these activities are useful additions to therapies relying on the spoken word.”
The Kite of Life’s genesis was in St James Town, a large housing block in downtown Toronto, Canada. In consultation with a team from the Dulwich Centre from Adelaide, the founder of narrative therapy, the kites were introduced as a meaningful way of responding to requests from Tamil refugees and migrant communities about inter-generational conflict in families.
Is the gender gap closing in the labour market?
[Posted: 15 Jul 2011]
Senior social work lecturer and head of the Department of Social Work, Dr Angela Barns, has teamed up with Professor Alison Preston, director of the Curtin Graduate School of Business, to reveal the hidden story behind national-level figures that paint a picture of Australia as a global leader in gender equality in the labour market.
The paper, ‘Is Australia Really a World Leader in Closing the Gender Gap?’ published in the Feminist Economics, responds to studies, including the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2006 Global Gender Gap report that ranked Australia 15 out of 115 nations as an emerging beacon of gender equality.
At the time of the WEF study’s release, the Howard Government had recently launched its contentious WorkChoices industrial relations changes.
Then Federal Minister for Employment and Industrial relations, Joe Hockey, promoted the WEF results as evidence the government’s industrial relations policies were working.
But the WEF results came as a surprise to many scholars, including Dr Barns and Professor Preston, who had earlier warned WorkChoices would be harsh and significantly disadvantage women.
Dr Barns said that the reports produced both internationally and nationally often obscured what was going on at the local level in terms of women’s participation in the labour market, women’s career advancement and women’s social and economic wellbeing.
“If you dig deeper into the reports our in-depth study spotlights that women are still worse off than men in the labour market,” Dr Barns said.
While recent years had seen a closing of the labour market participation gap between men and women, much of the jobs growth for women had been in the part-time sector – where career advancement was limited and wage growth below average.
In other words, although the participation gap had narrowed, Australian women were still strongly positioned as the secondary breadwinners with prime responsibility for child care.
Dr Barns said there were still lots of barriers to women’s participation and, if they were not addressed, the figurative walls would only get higher.
“In terms of numbers, there has been a huge increase over the past 20 years in terms of women’s participation,” she said.
“So, women are staying in the labour market a lot longer and there’s also an increase in returning to the workforce after having children.
“But what’s really interesting is the lack of quality part-time work.”
Dr Barns said that women who had worked in such careers as law, engineering or management often found it very difficult to get work on a part-time basis.
“These women often don’t go back into their professions,” she said.
Dr Barns and Professor Preston are part of WiSER - Women in Social and Economic Research - which is based at Curtin.
Freda Jacob AM, aged 92
Curtin honours occupational therapy pioneer
[Posted: 2 Jun 2011]
Curtin University has paid tribute to one of the pioneers of occupational therapy in Western Australia by naming a lecture theatre in her honour today.
Freda Jacob AM, aged 92, was recognised for her lifetime commitment and service to the occupational therapy profession and the Western Australian community.
Freda’s work and achievements were celebrated at a naming ceremony officiated by the Minister for Mental Health; Disabilities, the Honourable Helen Morton MLC, and Curtin’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andris Stelbovics.
Professor Lorna Rosenwax, Head of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, was delighted that Freda had accepted the University’s tribute to her groundbreaking work.
“It was Freda who set the standards for occupational therapy in Western Australia. Her legacy to the profession in this state is monumental,” Professor Rosenwax said.
“This year, as we celebrate 50 years of occupational therapy education in WA, it seems fitting that one of WA’s first occupational therapy practitioners is honoured in a way that ensures her work will be remembered and serve as inspiration to occupational therapy students, academic staff and practitioners.”
Freda Jacob was a member of the first Occupational Therapy School Board in 1960, which assisted in the formation of the first School of Occupational Therapy in Western Australia. She was involved with the establishment of the Registration Act for Occupational Therapists which ensured that every occupational therapist in WA was registered and appropriately qualified.
Freda’s career is filled with milestones significant to the development of occupational therapy in WA, including opening the first Department of Occupational Therapy at Princess Margaret Hospital in 1975. Freda became Head of the Occupational Therapy Department of Royal Perth Hospital in 1957.
On an international level, Freda was the first person from outside the United States to sit for the American Registration Examination and was the first Western Australian member of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.
In 1978 Freda founded the Independent Living Centre of Western Australia and in 1981 was the first occupational therapist in WA to be awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM).
The Freda Jacob Lecture Theatre is located within Curtin’s new $9 million occupational therapy and social work facility, which was officially opened by the Governor of Western Australia, Dr Ken Michael, AC, in February this year.
WA’s first occupational therapy school celebrates 50 years
WA’s first occupational therapy school celebrates 50 years
[Posted: 30 May 2011]
In the 50 years since the School of Occupational Therapy was formed its staff, students and graduates have performed educational firsts and carried out groundbreaking research that have improved the wellbeing and quality of life of individuals, families and communities.
More than 2,500 graduates have passed through its doors including the Hon Helen Morton MLC, the WA Minister for Mental Health and Disability Services, who graduated in 1969, and Carolyn Webster who graduated in 1963, who is currently the Manager of Community and Regulatory Services for the Shire of Wagin and has been the President of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists.
In 1961 the first Australian School of Occupational Therapy officially opened in Western Australia with nine students. It was known as the Royal Perth Hospital School of Occupational Therapy and offered a three-year Diploma in Occupational Therapy.
In 1969 the School merged with the Departments of Speech and Physiotherapy at the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT), which is today known as Curtin University, to form the Department of Therapies, and relocated to Shenton Park.
Current Head of School, and past graduate, Professor Lorna Rosenwax said that the School had been leading the way in occupational therapy for many years.
“In 1983 we were the first to introduce a driving clinic for adults with brain damage and a paediatric clinic for children. In 1987 we opened WA’s first hand clinic,” Professor Rosenwax said.
“In 1988 former Head of School, Jo Barker, became Australia’s first Professorial Chair in Occupational Therapy. We were also pioneering in postgraduate research courses offering WA’s first Master of Applied Science in 1978.
“In 1975 the School initiated OT Abroad – an international fieldwork placement program for our students. It later became known as ‘Go Global’ and received a competitive Australian award from the Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC) in 2010 for innovation in learning and teaching.”
Occupational therapy staff are continuing to provide leadership in occupational therapy in Australia and across the world by responding to the changing needs of society. In 2011 it opened new $9 million state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratories for its students. These facilities have the potential to revolutionise the way its students learn.
“Much has been achieved in the last five decades; this is testament to the passion and dedication of the School’s lecturers, researchers and graduates,” Professor Rosenwax added.
“This success could not have been achieved without the support of the occupational therapy profession, our clinical placement partners and the wider community all of whom have contributed to our legacy in their own way.”
University Bachelor of Social Work student Diane Welsh
Curtin social work student awarded Hazel Hawke scholarship
[Posted: 30 May 2011]
A Curtin University Bachelor of Social Work student has been awarded the 2011 annual Hazel Hawke Scholarship.
Diane Welsh, 36, from Warnbro, a first-year mature age student based at the Bentley campus, will receive an annual cash payment of $1,000 each year to assist with studying expenses throughout the duration of the four-year degree.
Angela Fielding, Head of the Department of Social Work said that the grant was provided to mature age women whose finances wouldn’t usually allow them to study at university.
“Hazel Hawke was recognised for her strong interest and involvement with the community and social issues relating to family, the environment and arts,” Dr Fielding said.
“Hazel would be proud to know that the 2011 recipient has shown just as strong a commitment to the community here in Western Australia.
“Before commencing at Curtin University Diane worked for a women’s domestic violence refuge based in Bunbury. She is passionate about helping people in the local community and once she qualifies as a social worker she will be advocating for people’s rights on a daily basis.”
The 2011 scholarship recipient said that she felt honoured to have received the award.
“Studying full-time whilst supporting a family is going to be challenging financially. So I can’t thank the university enough as the monies have already helped me purchase my text books for the year and I’ve also bought a printer that is going to make a difference to my studies.
“I’m looking forward to the opportunities that social work will provide, from empowering individuals and communities to supporting families.”
The scholarship is awarded annually on the basis of financial need, academic potential and commitment to the community and social issues.
For further information on the scholarship visit scholarships.curtin.edu.au
Angela with His Excellency, Dr Ken Michael, Governor of WA.
Five Curtin social work graduates named in Inaugural WA Women’s Hall of Fame
[Posted: 9 May 2011]
To celebrate the centenary of International Women’s Day in Western Australia (WA), 8 March 2011, the inaugural WA Women’s Hall of Fame was established with five graduates of Curtin University’s social work degree officially recognised in the prestigious honours listing.
The five unsung heroines were chosen along with 93 other hall of fame members. They were selected for their significant contribution to the WA and Australian community and economy, for being an inspirational role model to young women, and for their voluntary work, amongst other outstanding criteria.
They include Helen Cattalini (social worker), Paddy Creevey (public servant and mayor), Lois Gatley (carers’ advocate), Kay Hallahan (former parliamentarian and community advocate) and Jan McDonagh (child case worker).
A current Curtin University student, Angela Hartwig, who is undertaking a masters by research degree in the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, was also nominated for her work as a women’s activist.
Angela who has worked in the field of domestic and family violence and human rights for over 24 years said that being nominated for for the first ever women’s hall of fame was a total surprise.
“I had mixed feelings about being chosen because I work with so many amazing women that are deserving in their own right,” Ms Hartwig said.
“I have come to realise that the nomination gives voice to the women’s refuge, domestic and family violence services. And as a women’s activist it is great to know that I am helping to bring about social change in areas such as gender inequality, violence against women and children; and human rights.”
The 101 inaugural WA Women’s Hall of Fame members were assessed by the United Nation’s Women’s Perth chapter and the International Women’s Day steering committee.
Study to record benefits of traineeships and apprenticeships
[Posted: 7 Apr 2011]
A new national study is to look at the social and economic outcomes for young people with a disability who complete apprenticeships and traineeships.
Researchers at the Curtin University Centre for Research into Disability and Society (CRDS) in the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work at Curtin will lead a consortium with local WA organisation EDGE Employment Solutions Inc., and the peak national bodies Group Training Australia and National Disability Services Ltd (formerly known as ACROD) to determine what positive outcomes result if someone with a disability completes an apprenticeship or traineeship.
The project will receive $405,000 over a three year period and is one of five national competitive grants funded by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research.
Professor Errol Cocks, Director of CRDS, said while people with a disability generally have low rates of participation in traineeships and apprenticeships, when they do undertake such programs, evidence showed they completed them at similar rates as people without disability.
“It will be very useful to learn about the benefits of such training if apprenticeships and traineeships are successfully completed,” Professor Cocks said.
The study will consist of two data collection methods. The first will be a survey of 300 individuals across Australia who have a disability and, to serve as a comparison group, 75 individuals without a disability who have successfully completed an apprenticeship or traineeship. The second will be in-depth interviews through case studies with 30 individuals with a disability selected from that group.
“We are hoping to identify the key social and economic benefits that have been experienced by this study group,” he said.
Economic benefits may include an increase in income and career development, but also broader economic benefits to society as a whole, for example, decreased access to income support.
From a social perspective, the benefits are likely to reflect inclusion in community activities, and enhanced friendship and social networks that come from participation in work.
Professor Cocks said the findings would ultimately allow better strategies to be developed to encourage greater participation in apprenticeships and traineeships by people with disabilities.
“We believe the study will indicate that people with disabilities achieve better outcomes from engagement in work and earning an income than relying on welfare and undertaking alternatives to employment.”
Nigel Gribble recently received a Curtin Student Guild Excellence in Teaching Award
Students vote lecturer as excellent in teaching
[Posted: 3 Mar 2011]
Nigel Gribble from the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work recently received a Curtin Student Guild Excellence in Teaching Award for going above and beyond his duty in the classroom.
Nigel received the prestigious undergraduate award for demonstrating exceptional encouragement, guidance and enthusiasm in his teaching and interactions with students.
The accolades are unique in that all winners are nominated by students and are chosen primarily by student representatives, alongside a staff member of the University.
Kirrily Manning and Zona Rens from the School both received honourable mentions.
Nigel received $1000 to be used towards enhancing students’ educational experience as well as a framed certificate.
Ms Karen Long, recently voted as one of the top nominees of the 2010 Unijobs Lecturer of the Year Award.
Karen Long among top ten lecturers at Curtin
[Posted: 3 Mar 2011]
Ms Karen Long from the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work was recently voted as one of the top nominees of the 2010 Unijobs Lecturer of the Year Award, which places her among the top ten lecturers at Curtin University for 2010.
The Unijobs Lecturer of the Year award is designed for students and fellow working colleagues to recognise lecturers who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to better the teaching and learning, and lives, of their students and their campus communities.
Ms Long was one of 4000 nominees who were selected for the 2010 accolade, a number that has grown significantly over the last four years. More than 72,000 votes were cast by students and academics alike, making it the most popular to date.
Head of the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Professor Lorna Rosenwax, said that everyone at the School was immensely proud of Karen’s outstanding achievement.
“Karen constantly reflects excellent teaching principles in everything she does, these include dedication, care and thoroughness,” Professor Rosenwax said.
Head of School, Professor Lorna Rosenwax with iPad winner Renee Green
New OT students receive a Personal Invitation to ‘Walk their Course’
[Posted: 2 Mar 2011]
New to Curtin OT students received a Personal Invitation to ‘Walk the Course’ in the brand new purpose built facilities on Tuesday 22 February commencing at 11 am.
Students enjoyed a sausage sizzle, met with new friends and saw their course in action.
There were seven speciality areas to visit with interactive activities to partake in. Each area generated a question that students had to correctly answer to be in the draw to win the iPad.
The iPad was won by Renee Green.
Liz Gosling will receive the MBE
Social work alumna receives MBE
[Posted: 16 Feb 2011]
A Curtin University social work graduate will receive a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) award at a prestigious ceremony to be held at Buckingham Palace on Thursday 24 March 2011.
Liz Gosling, who graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science (Social Work) in 1980, will receive the MBE for services to local government from the Queen in recognition of her dedication to improving services to children in care over many years.
The honour acknowledges Ms Gosling’s former operational manager role for children in care in Islington, UK.
In this social work position she implemented legislation to protect children in care and established a Reviewing Service which became recognised in the UK for its high standards and innovation.
Ms Gosling, who is currently working as a group manager for the Children in Care Service in Waltham Forest, an outer east London suburb, said it was a real honour to be recognised in the 2011 MBE list.
“I’m shocked and thrilled. I find it amazing that I have received an MBE for something I’ve loved and enjoyed so much,” Ms Gosling said.
“I didn’t undertake this project single-handedly, it was a great team effort, and without the help of my colleagues the Reviewing Service would never have happened.”
Angela Fielding, Head of Social Work at Curtin’s Health Sciences, said that Liz’s social work colleagues at Curtin University were extremely proud of her achievement.
“Liz has over 30 years experience in the social work arena and the distinguished accolade recognises her tireless and dedicated work in helping the local community both in the UK and here in Australia.”
Curtin opens state-of-the-art teaching facilities
[Posted: 22 Feb 2011]
Curtin University opens the doors today to its state-of-the-art occupational therapy and social work facilities that will enable students to practise client and family centred care scenarios in realistic interprofessional settings.
The $9 million two-storey development on the University’s Bentley campus will use the latest technology to enable students to undertake simulated scenarios alongside current technologies.
Head of Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work, Professor Lorna Rosenwax, said the newly renovated building offers some of the best facilities for occupational therapy and social work students globally.
“These innovative facilities have been designed following extensive research, consultation and planning with staff, students and clinicians. They offer a cutting-edge teaching and learning space,” Professor Rosenwax said.
The innovative and integrated teaching space includes:
- State-of-the-art laboratories to support teaching in contemporary and emerging areas of practice. For example, a laboratory for developing the potential of children in early years through to adolescence, realistic home environments with a variety of options for people with disabilities, simulated work spaces for workers with a range of injuries and a range of resources to enhance communication.
- A 100-seat lecture theatre and five tutorial rooms.
- A suite which includes two group rooms, viewing areas and eight counselling rooms, all supported by innovative digital recording technology for teaching and learning in mental health.
- A dedicated comprehensive discipline-specific resource library and learning centre for students, staff and clinicians.
- A modern well-appointed comfortable student common area which includes full wireless access.
From each of the five laboratories, staff will be able to research both discipline-specific and interprofessional areas of research such as:
- Eye tracking within a play environment for children with autism spectrum disorders.
- Use of sensory integration for children with learning disabilities.
- Use of assistive technologies for people with physical limitations.
- Role of Wii in cognitive training and coordination.
Occupational therapy and social work courses are growing in popularity and the new facility will provide an excellent environment to educate future generations of occupational therapists and social workers.
OT Student Exhibition - Friday 11 March, 10-1pm
[Posted: 23 Feb 2011]
For information on the OT Student Exhibition click on the link below
- [ More... ]
Photo back left to right - David McGillivray - Social Work, Wladimir Jakimowicz - Nursing, Michael Hewson – Pharmacy; front left to right Courtney Royston - Physiotherapy, Amy Fussel – Occupational Therapy, Julie Smith – Nursing and Ranita Siru - UWA Medicine.
Curtin-RPH student training ward collaboration
[Posted: 22 Nov 2010]
Health Science students from Curtin University are the first in Australia to participate in a ‘real life’ interprofessional student training ward based at Royal Perth Hospital (RPH).
Curtin students from nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, pharmacy and social work, together with medical students from RPH’s University Department of Medicine, collaborated to run a section of a general medical ward at RPH for two-week rotations.
During the innovative educational experience the group undertook a range of duties that were specific to their profession, but were also designed to encourage interprofessional teamwork.
The final year health students were supervised throughout the unique exercise by highly qualified staff from each of the professions to ensure that safe, high quality care was provided to patients.
David McGillivray, a social work student, said that he enjoyed the interprofessional clinical experience and would recommend it to anyone.
“The project enabled me to develop an insight into the skills of other professions, and demonstrated that I have an important role to play as part of a health team,” said Mr MGillivray.
Margo Brewer, Director of Interprofessional Practice at the Faculty of Health Sciences at Curtin, said that the initiative was part of a project funded by Curtin and Sydney University that analysed the handover process in a student ward with the aim of improving patient safety.
“Our students are receiving a head start on teamwork in the health profession. We are currently the only university in Australia providing the opportunity for students to practise as part of an interprofessional team in an authentic ward experience,” said Ms Brewer.
“The project ensures that our students are better equipped for the demands that they will face in delivering quality outcomes for patients.”
Alison Lockhart, the nurse facilitator on the ward, said that the standard of care that the students delivered was extremely high.
Funding for the continuation of the interprofessional student training ward is being sought.
Curtin FM interview with Professor Lorna Rosenwax
[Posted: 18 Nov 2010]
Listen to the Curtin FM interview with Professor Lorna Rosenwax talking about the brand new Occupational Therapy and Social Work facilities.
You can use Quicktime to listen to this interview. 
Curtin graduate, Emma White. Photo courtesy of Rob McKrill Photography
Curtin student wins prestigious social work award
[Posted: 9 Nov 2010]
Curtin graduate, Emma White, has won the Rural and Remote Practitioner Award at the 2010 Social Worker of the Year Awards.
Ms White, who graduated with Honours in Social Work in 1999, received the prestigious award at the awards ceremony, hosted by Curtin University, on Monday 8 November.
The experienced social worker, who has been working for the Department for Child Protection in Kununurra for two years, said that she was humbled and honoured to receive the award.
“When you work in a rural area, you never work alone, it’s a collective effort, so this award celebrates and recognises all my amazing colleagues that I work with too,” Ms White said.
“I’d like to thank everyone in the Kimberley community for letting us into their lives and to the Department for Child Protection for providing me with workplace flexibility in a job that I love.”
Curtin’s Associate Professor Fran Crawford, who submitted the award nomination, said Ms White demonstrated a remarkable ability to make the most of the limited resources available in rural Western Australia, while making a positive contribution to the lives of many people living in remote communities.
“At the beginning of 2009 Emma faced a crisis situation with 26 positions in the Department being vacant. By becoming actively involved with the local community and reinforcing a positive image of the Department, she was able to successfully fill all positions, and also increase the proportion of Aboriginal staff to 50 per cent in the process,” Professor Crawford said.
Dr Angela Fielding, Head of Social Work at the School of Occupational Therapy, said Curtin was proud of Ms White’s outstanding achievements. She also congratulated three other Curtin Social Work graduates who were nominated as finalists for the awards including Valda Duffield, Jane Anne Cochrane and Tracey Nicolson.
The annual Social Worker of the Year Awards celebrates the achievements and commitment of social workers, whose job is often unrecognised by the community. They focus on the practice of social work and acknowledge its diversity, scope and potential.
Other awards presented on the night were:
- Social Worker of the Year – Glenda Kickett, Koondoola
- The Rising Star Award - Sophie Heal, Wanslea, Scarborough
- Agent of Change Award - Julie McKenzie, the Department for Child Protection, Fremantle
- Head, Heart and Hands Award - Joanne Delaney, Princess Margaret Hospital
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Award – Glenda Kickett, Koondoola
The Social Worker of the Year winner received $4500, a trophy, and an awards certificate. The category award winners all received $1500 and an awards certificate.
Major sponsors of the Awards include GESB, the Department for Child Protection, KPMG Australia, Richmond Fellowship WA and Edith Cowan University.
Photo of Glenda Kickett courtesy of Rob McKrill Photography
Djooraminda Centrecare social worker wins top award
[Posted: 9 Nov 2010]
A social worker dedicated to helping Aboriginal children who are no longer able to live with their family has won the 2010 Social Worker of the Year Award.
Glenda Kickett was presented with the prestigious award by Rosalie Dwyer, the 2009 award winner, at last night’s Social Worker of the Year Awards ceremony, hosted by Curtin University.
She also won the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Award.
Ms Kickett has worked for the not-for-profit Centrecare’s Djooraminda branch in Lockridge for more than a decade. During this time, she has helped many Aboriginal children find a safe home, when living with their own family was no longer possible.
A Bachelor of Social Work graduate from the University of Western Australia (UWA), Ms Kickett also has completed a Master of Arts from Curtin University and is currently completing her PhD at UWA.
Tony Pietropiccolo, the Director of Centrecare, who nominated Ms Kickett for the prestigious honour, said she was a highly skilled social worker and manager who demonstrated outstanding qualities on a daily basis.
“Glenda is a strong Indigenous woman who radiates strength, leadership, determination and is an excellent role model. She is an inspiration to us all, she thoroughly deserves the award,” Mr Pietropiccolo said.
The Awards’ patron, Jan Stewart, CEO of Lotterywest, said Ms Kickett had impressed the judges with her selfless dedication to Indigenous children.
“Glenda is on call 24/7. She has continuously worked to keep Aboriginal sibling groups together with Aboriginal carers looking after them, keeping the culture and families together,” Ms Stewart said.
“I want to congratulate all the finalists for being nominated, for their determined efforts, and on their remarkable achievements.”
Other awards presented on the night were:
- The Rising Star Award - Sophie Heal, Wanslea, Scarborough
- Rural and Remote Practitioner Award - Emma White, the Department for Child Protection, Kununurra
- Agent of Change Award - Julie McKenzie, the Department for Child Protection, Fremantle
- Head, Heart and Hands Award - Joanne Delaney, Princess Margaret Hospital
The Social Worker of the Year winner received $4500, a trophy, and an awards certificate. The category award winners all received $1500 and an awards certificate.
Major sponsors of the Awards include GESB, the Department for Child Protection, KPMG Australia, Richmond Fellowship WA and Edith Cowan University.
Curtin research reveals lack of mental illness support in prisons
[Posted: 8 Nov 2010]
Health professionals and correctional staff looking after male prisoners with a mental illness feel they are merely “crisis managing” because they lack enough skills, knowledge and resources, research by a Curtin PhD student has found.
The study by Dr Kate Hancock found more than 65 per cent of staff who participated in the study had not received any training in managing mental illnesses.
More than 65 per cent also said they did not feel they had adequate training to have people with a mental illness under their care.
The research, Stories and Stats: A mixed methods study of staff and male prisoner patient experiences of prison based mental health services, interviewed and surveyed 184 health professionals, correctional staff and prisoner patients in 2006 and 2007 at eight West Australian prisons, including metropolitan and regional sites.
Dr Hancock’s research supports other findings that people with a mental illness were over-represented in prison populations and are struggling to function in correctional environments.
“Health professionals in prison suffer from a systematic lack of recognition, support and leadership from both the health and justice spectrums and report they are merely crisis managing prisoners,” Dr Hancock said.
“Over a third of the staff sampled say they are coping day to day, and the majority of staff report they are doing the best they can with the facilities and knowledge they have.”
Insufficient resources, struggling to find a balance between therapy and security, and prison officer role conflict were some of the reasons cited by staff.
“On the positive side of the prison work experience almost three-quarters of the staff participants reported that they are part of a great team who work well together to achieve positive outcomes,” she said.
“Moreover, prisoner patients in the sample reported that prison can be a helping hand providing them with access to some mental health services.”
But Dr Hancock said the findings also demonstrated the complexity and frightening situation experienced by prisoner patients living in prisons, not only coping with a mental illness, but with people who generally did not understand them and with limited services to adequately address their needs.
More than half of the prisoners also reported they were treated differently by other inmates because of their mental illness with many taunted and discouraged from taking their medication.
“There was a general sentiment that individuals with mental health issues are vulnerable and isolated in the prison system,” Dr Hancock said.
The study found a very real perception by prison staff that the number of prisoners with a mental illness was increasing, with the rise attributed to deinstitutionalisation, overburdened community mental health services, and illegal drug use.
Dr Hancock said there was a need for increased mental health services, particularly in regional prisons as well as improved training and professional development for staff.
“There is a need to develop multifaceted and team approached services that are personalised to the individual needs of the mentally ill,” she said.
“Prisons provide a captive audience and an opportunity to work with the mentally ill who unfortunately come into contact with the justice system,” she said.
There is a need to develop a correctional approach to health and mental healthcare delivery because the present model is ineffective.
Dr Hancock said there was also a need to improve community mental health services in order to reduce the number of mentally ill people coming into contact with the justice system.
“Hopefully this is something the outcomes of the Western Australian Mental Health Commission will be able to address,” she said.
Dr Hancock has worked as a public servant for the last seven years. She is also enrolled at Murdoch University where she is studying law. Dr Hancock completed her PhD at the School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work at Curtin this year and is currently writing journal articles to publish her research findings.
Social Worker of the Year Award finalists unveiled
[Posted: 3 Nov 2010]
Finalists from across WA have been announced for this year’s prestigious Social Worker of the Year Awards.
The respected accolades, now in their second year, celebrate the accomplishments and commitment of social workers across the State, whose achievements are often unrecognised by the community.
In total, there are 15 social work finalists across five different categories. An overall winner will be selected from the five award categories, which include the:
- Rising Star Award
- Rural and Remote Practitioner Award
- Head Hands and Heart Award
- Agent of Change Award
- Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander Award
The Rising Star Award recognises the outstanding performance of a recently qualified social worker. Finalists include Eamon McGrath, a social worker with Graylands Hospital, Sophie Heal, a social worker with Wanslea and Jane Anne Cochrane, acting senior field worker with the Department for Child Protection, Fremantle District.
The Awards’ patron, Jan Stewart, CEO of Lotterywest, said that the accolades offered a unique opportunity to celebrate the successes of social workers who really make a positive impact on people’s lives.
“The quality of the finalists was extremely high. I want to congratulate all the social workers who have reached the finals, their work is a true inspiration to us all,” Ms Stewart said.
Major sponsors of the Awards include GESB, the Department for Child Protection, KPMG Australia, Richmond Fellowship WA and Edith Cowan University.
The award winners will be announced at a distinguished evening awards ceremony to be hosted by Curtin University at the Tim Winton lecture theatre at the Bentley campus on Monday 8 November 2010. For more information visit - www.swoty.wordpress.com
Occupational Therapy graduate, Ashleigh Nelson, stands at the back second from left
Gold medal for Curtin Occupational Therapy graduate
[Posted: 3 Nov 2010]
An Occupational Therapy graduate from the Curtin’s Health Sciences has helped the Hockeyroos win their third gold medal in four Commonwealth Games campaigns.
Occupational Therapy graduate, Ashleigh Nelson, won gold playing as striker for the Australian women’s hockey team at the 2010 Commonwealth Games held in Delhi.
The July 2010 graduate, who has played for Australia since 2008, was part of the victory team that battled for the gold medal against New Zealand.
The Hockeyroos were deadlocked at 2-2 against New Zealand in the final game, with the match decider coming down to penalties.
“The final match was nerve-wracking, especially as it went to a penalty shoot out, but it was great to finally clinch the title with fellow Hockeyroo, Arrold, scoring the fifth stroke,” she said.
Ashleigh praised the staff at the School of Occupational Therapy for continuously accommodating her training needs as an elite athlete throughout the duration of her degree.
In fact, a one-on-one tutoring session was set up to ensure she would finish her final unit and be able to graduate.
“Speaking to others, Curtin seems like it’s the most flexible and understanding university to athletes,” she said.
“The amount of times I’ve had to reschedule stuff like exams or tests, they’ve always been really understanding and accommodating.”
Ashleigh said that it was a dream of hers to play for the Hockeyroos in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
“You never know what will happen, hockey players often get injured. I’m just going to focus on being a stronger player and continue with my passion for the game.”
Occupational Therapy students get to meet the former Australian of the Year, Professor Fiona Wood. Photo From left to right:
Janine Hewlett, Susannah Wells, Sarah Wassermann, Kodie Kessell, Dr Fiona Wood, Ashleigh Bunce and Carli Breur
Professor Fiona Wood inspires Occupational Therapy students
[Posted: 1 Nov 2010]
Fourth year Occupational Therapy students were recently inspired by former Australian of the Year, Professor Fiona Wood, as part of the Allied Health Leadership and Management unit that is offered in the popular degree.
Professor Wood visited Curtin’s School of Occupational Therapy and Social Work on Friday 22 October to speak to students about her research and work as an internationally renowned plastic surgeon and burns specialist. She provided a unique insight into her journey from growing up in Yorkshire in the UK, to being a world leader.
Professor Wood explained how she was propelled into the media spotlight in 2002 when the largest proportion of survivors from the Bali Bombings arrived at Royal Perth Hospital. She used this situation to share some key lessons about leadership and team work.
The burns expert, who won the Western Australian Citizen of the Year award in 2005, stated that there was leadership potential in everyone, and provided the captivated audience with a number of tips including:
- Giving people the opportunity to discuss and bring ideas to the table
- Contributing to society
- Facilitating those around you
- Being responsible for your actions
- Collaborating rather than working in isolation
- Engaging with positive people
Alison Lim, a final year student, said that listening to Professor Wood’s real-life story - her challenges, triumphs and compassion was truly motivating.
“Everyone in the room was mesmerised by what Professor Wood had to say. We were all amazed at how she demonstrated leadership and brought about change at many levels, and she did all this whilst being a mother of six.” said Ms Lim.
“Her passion is contagious, and although she’s achieved great things, she’s humble and selfless at the same time.”
Associate Professor Matthew Molineux who leads the Allied Health Leadership and Management unit said that the University was honoured and privileged that Professor Wood had taken time out from her hectic schedule to speak to the students about her inspirational story.
Occupational Therapy students dancing up a storm
Curtin flashmob dances up a storm on campus
[Posted: 15 Oct 2010]
Occupational Therapy students and staff took part in Curtin’s first ever flashmob at the Bentley campus to create awareness about Befriend, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote lasting friendships between people.
Over 35 people suddenly burst into dance at 12:30pm on Wednesday 13 October, dancing to the beat of Vanessa Amorosi’s ‘Absolutely Everybody’.
Bewildered staff and students from across the campus stood and stared at the flashmob dancers, finding the dance routine hugely entertaining, with some of the crowd joining in the fun.
Verity de Fries who organised the event to advertise the launch of ‘Befriend’ said she wanted to do something different to spread the word about the friend-making organisation.
“I was the first one to start the dance off. I was really nervous at the start, but when I got into the groove and everyone else joined in, I forgot that I was surrounded by loads of people,” she said.
Associate Professor Mathew Molineux who teaches the unit Allied Health Leadership and Management as part of the Occupational Therapy degree said that although the aim of the flashmob was to publicise Befriend, the students were taking part in the exercise to get students to think out of the box.
“The unusual performance demonstrates that merely talking about an issue that you are passionate about isn’t enough, sometimes we must take action if we want to influence change, the flashmob is a good example of this.”
Befriend will be officially launched on Sunday 24 October at Wellington Square, East Perth from 10:00am through to 2:00pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. For further information please contact Verity de Fries - verity.defries@student.curtin.edu.au
Check out the video on You Tube
New teaching and learning facilities
[Posted: 4 Oct 2010]
Curtin University is investing over $9 million in new teaching and learning facilities for its occupational therapy and social work students.
Click on the link below to read more...
- [ More... ]
Occupational Therapy students
Curtin students attempt to create WA’s longest line dance
[Posted: 13 Sep 2010]
Occupational Therapy students from Curtin’s Health Sciences recently attempted to create Western Australia’s longest channel of line dancers in less than an hour as part of a course that gets students to think out of the box.
The Allied Health Leadership and Management unit taught to final year Occupational Therapy students introduces concepts of leadership and management from a different perspective.
Curtin lecturer Rebecca Waters said that leadership had been described as a process of social influence where one person could obtain the support of others to achieve a common goal.
“I provided our team of students with a challenge to grab as many people from the university to take part in a line dance in just under an hour,” she said.
“It was amazing to see how our students contributed to making something extraordinary happen so quickly – attempting to create the world’s longest row of line dancers.
“Some students managed to rope in many participants, and others none. I wanted them to reflect on this recognising that our personal believes, judgements, and value systems influence the level at which we choose to engage in social leadership or change.”
Paris Champion, a final year Occupational Therapy student, said that the activity was fun and had taught her to think about leadership differently.
“I was really positive about the exercise, and inspired others to take part by saying that they would be part of creating a world record. As a result I managed to get eight people to take part in the challenge,” she said.
“I also learnt that good leaders don’t lead from the front or behind, but work alongside their people.”
The inspiration for the project came from Associate Professor Matthew Molineux. It was a huge success with the small group of Occupational Therapy students pulling in over 100 individuals in just under 60 minutes.
Photograph courtesy of Mandurah Mail
Health Science alumna makes Queen's honour list
[Posted: 7 Jul 2010]
A graduate of the former Bachelor of Applied Science (Social Work) has been named in the Queen’s birthday honours list.
Patricia Creevey, affectionately known as ‘Paddi’, recently received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her dedication and hard work to local government and the Mandurah community.
Paddi has more than 30 years experience in the social work arena and lends her expertise to a range of community groups in the region.
Today she plays a fundamental role in the local community as Mayor of Mandurah. There is barely a local committee or panel she hasn’t sat on or chaired, and her commitment to the local area has been well documented.
As well as her Council duties, Mayor Creevey is also Chair of the Governing Council of Challenger Institute of Training, a member of the Peel Inlet Management Council and a member of the Peel RegionPlanning Committee. She is the local government representative on the Peel Planning Commission Board and Regional Development Australia Peel and serves on an advisory group on higher education in Australia.
The 1975 graduate said: ‘I am absolutely humbled and honoured. I never, ever dreamed I would receive this award, I can’t quite get my head around it, it’s very special, and I can’t stop smiling.’
Pro Vice-Chancellor Jill Downie said: ‘We are extremely proud of Paddi, she is passionate about social justice as her record of service demonstrates. We are appreciative of Paddi’s ongoing commitment to the education of future social workers through her many years of supervising Curtin social work students on their clinical placements.’
Mayor Creevey cited her fellow councillors and other people in the region as pivotal to her success.
Living Life Through Occupation
[Posted: 1 Apr 2010]
Occupational Therapy in Action - 4th Year student exhibition.pdf [1MB]
OT Information Sessions
[Posted: 12 Apr 2010]
OT Information Sessions at SCGH and Fremantle Hospital.pdf [21KB][12 April 2010]
