My research focuses on health equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the ways in which food and nutrition policies and programs are able to be effective and acceptable for Aboriginal people in Victoria. At INFANT, my role focuses on assessing the usefulness of INFANT in improving early years nutrition for Aboriginal people in Victoria. I also previously worked at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) when a partnership was being established with INFANT.
As part of the INFANT team, I’ve really enjoyed our focus on real-world implementation. Often research takes place, whether in a lab or clinical setting, in a very controlled setting. In contrast, INFANT is being embedded within healthcare services. Meaning, we’re able to understand what key factors will support INFANT to make a real-world impact.
INFANT’s flexibility to adapt and be guided by the communities they’re supporting is really exciting for future research! From my perspective, it’s crucial to ensure Aboriginal communities in Victoria can also benefit from this program. With the support of key partners, like VACCHO, researchers are working to empower Aboriginal organisation to take the lead on how best to implement INFANT.
Learn more about Dr Jennifer Browne and the INFANT team here.