The allied health workforce encompasses 27 professions across The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), including physiotherapy, dietetics, speech pathology and social work. The workforce includes a large cohort of staff who are passionate about undertaking world leading research that improves patient care.  

The Director of Allied Health Research, a position made possible thanks to funding support from the Good Friday Appeal, focuses on building the research capacity in allied health professionals at the RCH, and driving research partnerships with The University of Melbourne, the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, and academic and industry stakeholders.  

Associate Professor Kelly Weir was appointed to this role in 2023. A certified practicing speech pathologist with extensive clinical experience, Kelly provides leadership within the allied health team. She supports allied health clinicians to undertake high-quality clinical research that identifies, implements and evaluates effective, evidence-led treatments and services for children and young people at the RCH. 

In her role as Director, and with the support of Emily O’Kearney in her newly commenced role of Allied Health Research Development Officer, Kelly provides leadership to support high-quality clinical research with the aim of supporting allied health clinicians to identify, implement and evaluate effective, evidence-led interventions and services for children and young people.

In the first year of the initiative, Kelly worked to understand current allied health research capacity and activities at the RCH, and to develop a program of research and education for allied health in collaboration with staff, children and families, and stakeholders.

In the program’s second year, Kelly will be focusing on a formal evaluation of allied health research culture and capacity to develop research resources, stronger networks, and mentoring or training opportunities.

By prioritising allied health research, the RCH can ensure optimal outcomes for patients and families, while also positioning itself as a leader in paediatric allied health research and education.

This investment will further bolster the RCH’s Allied Health Department, with the chance to combine research interests and clinical duties being an incredible drawcard for staff.