News and events

Thank you to everyone who joined us on December 5th, 2025, for the launch of the Connect Centres Lived and Living Experience Workforce Project “Changing Lives” Report, including two new family carer lived experience reflective practice tools and an exhibition. We’re thrilled to share that the research launched was well received by mental health family and carers, family carer peer workforce, and key stakeholders.  The project focused on lived and living experience family carer workers based across the eight Victorian Mental Health and Wellbeing Carer Connect Centres. These Centres were developed in response to Recommendation 31 of the 2021 Royal Commission into Victoria’s mental Health System. 

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Launch attendees recognised the research process and outcomes as a standout case study in authentic and thoughtful collaboration, bringing together the strengths of Family Carer Research Advocacy Network (FaCRAN)/ RMIT University, the Victorian Collaborative Centre, and the Victorian Department of Health.

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The event was formally opened by Carer Commissioner Jacqueline Gibson, setting a tone of deep respect and recognition for family carer lived experience workforce. Family carer perspective researchers, Dr Caroline Lambert and Deua Stojanovska (RMIT / FaCRAN) launched the final report, highlighting the importance of translational research shaped withand for families, carers, supporters and kin. The report includes detailed findings and a series of 46 recommendations, including suggested minimum standards. It is available to read here

Attendees unanimously agreed that all research should be as grounded, accessible and actionable as this report and the two reflective practice tools. The energy in the room—and online—affirmed just how vital and valued the family carer workforce is across Victoria.

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Thank you to our partners, presenters and every Connect Centre participant who made this such a meaningful celebration of lived experience leadership, knowledge and collaboration.