Sunil Bhar

Prof Sunil Bhar is a Professor of Psychology at Swinburne University of Technology, School of Health Sciences. He specializes in clinical psychology with a focus on psychological treatments for older adults. As Director of the Swinburne Wellbeing Clinic for Older Adults, he leads research on intervention efficacy and accessibility in aged care. Since 2005, his research has addressed depression, suicide, and anxiety in aging populations, securing over $12M in grants. He holds multiple awards, including the Alastair Heron Prize (2014) and Swinburne's Research Impact Award (2019).

Education:

• PhD, University of Melbourne, Australia
• Master of Arts (Clinical Psychology), University of Melbourne
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours), University of Melbourne

Research Interests: Prof Bhar’s work centers on developing sustainable mental health interventions for older adults, emphasizing intergenerational programs, digital health tools, and caregiver support. His research bridges clinical practice and policy, addressing gaps in aged care mental health services.

Grants & Awards:

• $12M+ in research funding since 2005
• 2024-2028 Ian Potter Foundation Grant for evidence-based psychological treatments in aged care
• 2025 Murray PHN Grant for mental health professional development in residential care

Advising & Teaching: Supervises doctoral research in geropsychology, including studies on anorexia nervosa in older adults and retirement community decision-making. Teaches advanced clinical psychology and statistical methods.

Labs & Initiatives: Leads the Swinburne Wellbeing Clinic, a counseling service for aged care residents and staff. Active in the Australian Psychological Society's Psychology and Ageing Interest Group and the Beck Institute's international advisory committee.