Emily Darnett

I am a proud Palawa woman from the Nipaluna lands in Tasmania. However, I grew up on Yugambeh country in Southeast Queensland, and now reside, study and work in the Kulin Nation. I am currently undertaking a Doctor of Philosophy (clinical psychology) at Swinburne university. Where I also work and sit on committees to work towards Indigenising the content taught, and improve the university experience for First Nations students undertaking psychology degrees. My areas of interest within psychology are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health, social injustices and social minorities.

Currently, I am employed by University of Melbourne within the Indigenous Health Equity Unit as a Research Assistant, I aid the investigation to improve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples experience during the perinatal period.

I was inspired to study psychology as I have had several family members experience different mental health issues across my lifespan. When I was younger, I couldn’t help them, but now I have gained the education and developed my skills to help people in similar circumstances. After connecting with my culture in my late teens, my passion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander wellbeing continued to grow. With the mentoring from Dr Tracy Westerman, I feel like I can make a difference for the Indigenous communities across Australia.