معرفی
Caroline Nilson is an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing within Murdoch University's College of Health and Education and a Researcher at the Murdoch University Ngangk Yira Institute for Change. Her work centers on Aboriginal health promotion through community-based nutrition and cooking education initiatives for children and adolescents in Western Australia's Peel region.
Her educational background includes a PhD in Aboriginal Health Promotion (Murdoch University, 2016), Master of Research in Critical Thinking Development (Murdoch University, 2011), Bachelor of Midwifery (Flinders University, 2007), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Curtin University, 1997), Hospital Diploma in Nursing (Parirenyatwa Hospital, 1979), and Hospital Based Diploma in Midwifery (Pembry Hospital, 1981).
Professor Nilson's research focuses on culturally safe health promotion for Aboriginal communities, particularly through the Deadly Koolinga Chef Program (DKCP) – a translational initiative developing food literacy among 6-17 year olds. The program integrates STEM skills, family engagement, and workforce development while addressing chronic disease prevention through nutrition education and cooking workshops delivered in partnership with Aboriginal community organizations.
Her scientific awards demonstrate exceptional contributions to nursing education:
- Vice Chancellors Excellence in Teaching Award – Early Career (2008)
- Vice Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence in Enhancing Learning (2009)
- Australian Teaching and Learning Council Citation (2011)
- Vice Chancellor’s Citations for Excellence in Enhancing Learning (2017)
- Learn X Award Platinum for Nursing eportfolio blended learning (2018)
- Australian Awards for University Teaching Programs (2018)
- WA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Award - Aboriginal Health (2018)
She secured $185,000 from the Australian Department of Health and $200,000 from the Ian Potter Foundation to support DKCP's three-phase implementation across Mandurah and Pinjarra. The project involves 1200+ participants (25% Aboriginal) through partnerships with Nidjalla Waangan Mia Aboriginal Health Service, Murray Districts Aboriginal Association, Winjan Aboriginal Corporation, and multiple schools, with emphasis on Aboriginal workforce upskilling through Certificate IV in Nutrition courses.
The DKCP operates under Ngangk Yira Institute for Change's research pillars (Maternal and Child Health, Family Empowerment, Healthy Communities) with ethics approvals from WA Aboriginal Health Ethics Committee and Murdoch University HREC, aligning with National Aboriginal Health Plan and WA Aboriginal Health Framework.
