Hilary Johnson

Hilary Johnson is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the Living with a Disability Research Centre, La Trobe University, and has taught part-time in the School of Allied Health. Her academic and clinical work centers on improving communication access for individuals with complex communication needs, including those with aphasia, intellectual disabilities, and developmental conditions.

• Adjunct Associate Professor, Living with a Disability Research Centre
• Part-time teaching, School of Allied Health, La Trobe University
• Extensive collaboration with Scope and other disability organizations

Hilary holds a PhD, MA (Ed), B Ed, and Dip Sp Th, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary background in speech pathology, education, and disability studies.

• Diploma in Speech Therapy (Dip Sp Th)
• Bachelor of Education (B Ed)
• Master of Arts in Education (MA Ed)
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Her research is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of people with little or no speech through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), saliva control, and inclusive communication practices. She investigates communication access in healthcare, legal, transport, and community settings, aiming to foster dignity, autonomy, and social inclusion.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on participatory research, accessibility standards, and the development of practical tools and training for frontline workers. Her work spans qualitative studies, intervention evaluations, and policy-oriented research, often employing co-design and community-based methodologies.

Her scientific contributions have been recognized through widespread citation, media pickup, and policy references, though formal awards are not listed in the provided text.

• Keynote speaker at national and international conferences
• Multiple publications in high-impact journals such as Disability and Rehabilitation and Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
• Research cited in policy and news outlets

Hilary actively mentors students and collaborates across disciplines, though specific advisees are not named. Her work is supported through institutional and organizational partnerships, including Scope, and emphasizes capacity building in both professional and community contexts.

She is involved in developing and evaluating digital tools like the Aphasia App and communication access networks, reflecting a forward-looking approach to leveraging technology for inclusion.