The Kids researcher recognised internationally for advancing equity and inclusion

Associate Professor Yael Perry, Head of Youth Mental Health at The Kids Research Institute Australia, has received the Extraordinary Contributions to Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Award at the International Society for Research on Internet Interventions (ISRII) 14th Scientific Meeting in Newcastle, Australia.

Associate Professor Perry's research centres on populations which often experience higher rates of mental health difficulties, with a focus on improving support for LGBTQA+ young people and their families through evidence-based, accessible and inclusive interventions.

Associate Professor Perry said it was an honour to be recognised for contributing to equity and diversity.

“My team strives to use research as a tool to improve the lives of marginalised young people, many of whom struggle to find high-quality, person-centred support that meets their needs,” Associate Professor Perry said. “Equity and inclusion are at the heart of what we do.”

Associate Professor Perry’s contributions to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion span research, policy and practice.

From leading the development of the Transforming Families website and launching online training for medical and psychology trainees to building real-world skills for inclusive, affirming care, her work has helped to address critical gaps in mental health support and service delivery.

The Transforming Families website hosts a suite of resources and information to help parents better understand and support a child who identifies as gender-diverse or trans.

Since its launch, the website has gained 71,000 active users across 125 countries with about 141,000 views.

Associate Professor Perry also contributed to national policy as an invited expert advisor to Australia's LGBTIQA+ Health & Wellbeing 10-Year Action Plan, helping inform efforts to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for LGBTIQA+ communities nationwide.

The Kids Executive Director, Professor Caroline Homer, said the award reflected Associate Professor Perry’s unwavering commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive future for young people and their families.

"Through her research, advocacy and leadership, Yael has helped ensure that communities which have historically faced barriers to support are not only heard but are actively involved in shaping the solutions designed to improve their wellbeing,” Professor Homer said.

"Her work continues to influence research, policy and practice both in Australia and internationally, making her a truly deserving recipient of this award."The three-day ISRII 14th Scientific Meeting brought together leading experts, researchers, and innovators in the field of digital health, behavioural science, and technology.