Please get in touch if you would like to know more about our work or discuss collaboration or research opportunities.
Twitter @CARA_DRH
Centre for Australian Research into Access
Achieving greater access for all
How our research improves access for all
At the Centre for Australian Research into Access (CARA), a collaborative initiative led by Deakin Rural Health and Grampians Health Ballarat, we aim to tackle disparities in health, education and safety between remote, regional and metropolitan Australians. Our innovative research directly informs policy decision-making, striving to enhance access to essential services for all communities.
Our research specialties
Our work is anchored in three key areas, each designed to uncover disparities and enhance equitable access to essential services.
Data collection and collation for accessibility research
We gather and organise unique data sets that reveal critical insights into accessibility challenges. By focusing on underrepresented populations, we aim to illuminate the factors affecting access to services.
Novel data processing methods for accessibility metrics
Utilising cutting-edge data processing techniques, we develop robust metrics that quantify accessibility across various domains. Our innovative approaches allow us to analyse complex data sets and provide actionable insights for policymakers.
Expertise and support for researchers and policymakers
We provide invaluable data and expertise to help researchers and policy developers navigate accessibility issues. Our goal is to foster collaboration and drive informed decision-making that addresses the geographic and demographic disparities impacting health and education.
Partner with us
If you’re passionate about enhancing accessibility and social equity, we invite you to collaborate with us. Together, we can drive impactful research and create meaningful change.
Our researchers
At CARA, we unite experts in public health, data science and health geography. The team enhances demographic and health data availability to drive impactful social policy in Australia.
Professor Vincent Versace is the director of Deakin Rural Health and the founding co-director of CARA. His research focuses on cardiovascular disease risk and diabetes prevention and management. With over 150 peer-reviewed publications, he plays a vital role in advancing health strategies across communities.
Associate Professor Anna Wong Shee is the co-director of CARA and a registered physiotherapist with over 20 years of experience. She specialises in health professional capacity building, innovative service models and health economic evaluation, aiming to enhance healthcare delivery and outcomes.
Featured projects
Our researchers are dedicated to addressing disparities in access to essential services across Australia. Through comprehensive studies, we are mapping physical access to education, healthcare and childcare, ensuring that every community can thrive.
Mapping physical access to Australian primary schools
Our project creates a national database mapping distances to primary education services across Australia. By providing interactive maps, we equip policymakers with the insights needed to enhance accessibility and improve educational outcomes for children in all regions.
Mapping physical access to general practice services
This project focuses on developing a national database that maps distances to general practice services throughout Australia. Our interactive maps aim to inform health policy, ensuring all Australians can access essential healthcare services regardless of their location.
