Hazel Dalton

Dr Hazel Dalton is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Newcastle's School of Medicine and Public Health, affiliated with the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health (CRRMH) in Orange. With a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of New South Wales and a Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry) with Honours, she transitioned from molecular biology research to rural mental health systems after relocating to Orange in 2012.

• Key affiliations: University of Newcastle (2016-present), University of Sydney (2012-2014), Centre for Cancer Biology (2004-2012)
• Leadership roles: Research Leader at CRRMH, Project Officer for Rural Adversity Mental Health Program

Her research focuses on rural adversity, integrated mental healthcare, and rural suicide prevention. She co-authored the Orange Declaration on rural mental health and played a pivotal role in establishing the International Foundation for Integrated Care Australia (2015-2021). Her work emphasizes translational research, mixed-methods approaches, and evidence-based policy development.

Recent publications highlight her expertise in community wellbeing initiatives, low-intensity mental health services, and school-based intervention models for vulnerable families. She has secured $485,615 in grant funding across five projects, including rural suicide prevention and stepped care frameworks.

• Scientific Awards
  • Waratah Research Network Research Impact Showcase (2022)
• Professional Contributions
  • Co-developer of Project Integrate Framework evaluations
  • Key advisor on NSW Legislative Council health inquiries
  • Founding member of IFICA (2015-2021)