Welcome to the Centre For Better Relationships
We are the research arm of Better Place Australia. Through our various projects, we create a strong data-driven foundation for each of the services that BPA provides. Our goal is to form stronger relationships in the communities we support by creating a better understanding of the problems they encounter as well as the solutions they need.
Our Latest Projects
This opinion editorial explores how moving into residential aged care is often seen as a ‘normal’ phase of one’s life. Much is made of the systematic inadequacies and little about the people who experience aged care.
Centre for Better Relationships is currently developing a research framework that is child focused and explores their experiences after accessing a CCS.Â
This brief examination seeks to review the limited knowledge there is in relation to this topic. Both academic and non-academic sources of literature will be reviewed in this piece and some suggestions for best practice will be generated.
Our Areas of Interest
In conjunction with our work at Better Place Australia, the research conducted at the Centre for Better Relationships covers the following areas of interest.
Mental Health
We aim to better understand the intricacies of mental health so that we can provide effective and compassionate counselling services.
Relationship Support
Relationships are complex, and our research helps us approach them with the nuance and respect they deserve for all parties involved.
Finance
With our studies, we are able to help communities achieve and maintain financial stability under various circumstances.
Elder Support
Our research helps us provide older Victorians with the necessary avenues to live a fulfilling and independent life free of abuse.
Youth Support and Childcare
A lot of the situations we encounter have a unique impact on children that we strive to study, understand and address.
LGBTQI+
Through our research, we advocate for all facets of this community, supporting their identities, relationships and expression.
Meet The Team
Our work is only possible due to our highly qualified professional researchers and the wealth of experience they share.Â
Dr Sarah Marko
Researcher
Dr Sarah Marko has a bachelor’s degree in Public Health and Health Promotion and a PhD from Deakin University, as well as a background in qualitative public health research.
Dr Laila Hugrass
Researcher/Data Analyst
Dr Laila Hugrass has conducted research in the fields of psychology and cognitive neuroscience, and holds an adjunct research position where she is studying her Master of Art Therapy.
