Laine Chilman

Dr. Laine Chilman is a Lecturer and Program Coordinator for Occupational Therapy (Honours) at the University of the Sunshine Coast's School of Health. With a clinical background as both an occupational therapist and registered nurse in Australia and England, her research focuses on enhancing children's lives through parent-focused interventions that address picky eating, child behavior, play development, and family mealtime dynamics.

Her research examines occupational therapy and parenting interventions that promote child development, with particular emphasis on culturally responsive approaches developed in partnership with First Nations communities. She investigates evidence-based strategies for feeding difficulties and develops coaching frameworks for parents.

Dr. Chilman leads multiple research projects funded by organizations including the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation and National Health and Medical Research Council. Current research includes developing culturally responsive interventions for paediatric feeding disorders and exploring occupational therapy practices for children with feeding challenges.

Awards & Recognition:

• Vice-Chancellor's Research Impact Award (2024)
• Senior Fellowship of Higher Education Academy (2022)
• Occupational Therapy Australia Postgraduate Award (2021)

She serves on the Australian Health Ethics Committee (2024-2027) and leads multiple grants investigating feeding disorders, occupational therapy education, and culturally responsive healthcare practices. Her teaching focuses on occupational therapy theory, evaluation methods, and pediatric interventions.