SMP public lectures 2025
The Jane Dahlstrom "How to Make a Difference" public lecture held on 11 August was an opportunity to hear from paeditarian and child advocate Dr Sue Packer about the wellbeing of children, while the Cecil Gibb public lecture held on 1 September saw Professor Richard Bryant, from UNSW, discussing novel insights into PTSD Treatments.
Dr Sue Packer AO reflected on over 50 years of work in children's rights and systems advocacy. A panel discussion with Ms Rebecca Zappelli and Associate Professor Dave Pasalich explored practical questions around embedding child-centred principles in service delivery, supporting marginalised families, and involving parents in mental health care.
Professor Richard Bryant presented new research on treating PTSD, focusing on why standard CBT isn’t effective for everyone and how more personalised treatments that target the specific psychological processes behind each person’s symptoms could lead to better outcomes.
Both events highlighted the need for continued innovation, whether through system reform or scientific advancement, the message was clear: meaningful change is possible when we centre lived experience, embrace new approaches, and work together to create better outcomes for children, families, and individuals affected by trauma.
