Dimitra Lattas

Dr. Dimitra Lattas is a Lecturer in Social Work at the University of the Sunshine Coast's School of Law and Society, specializing in forensic social work and social work education. Her research focuses on forensic social work pedagogy, simulation-based learning, and addressing gaps in social work education related to criminal justice systems. She holds a PhD in Social Work and has been recognized with prestigious awards including the 2024 AASW National Social Work Researcher of the Year and the 2025–2026 Fulbright Queensland Scholarship.

• Education: PhD (Social Work, USC), MA(Res) (Sydney), MSocWk (Australian Catholic University), BA(Dist) (Newcastle)
• Professional Memberships: Australian Association of Social Workers, Australian Association of Family Therapy
• Board Member: It’s Sunny Somewhere charity, supporting at-risk youth through outdoor activities

Her research interests span forensic social work specializations, technology-enhanced learning, and the intersection of mental health with criminal justice systems. Key areas include hearing voices paradigms and youth justice systems. She has contributed to global comparative studies on forensic social work education and developed simulation-based training models.

Awards include the Albert Roberts Scholarship (NOFSW, USA) for her work on simulation-based learning and the Fulbright Scholarship to investigate workforce development for justice-involved youth.

Teaching focuses on forensic social work theories, simulation-based learning, and applied practice. She actively collaborates with organizations like the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre to address youth crime through community engagement.

Lattas is part of the Sexual Violence Research and Prevention Unit, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to social justice issues. Her work bridges academic research with practical interventions, advocating for evidence-based practice in criminal legal systems.