Despite the widespread prevalence of social isolation and loneliness, we also know how to combat it. In this session we will hear about  ‘what works’ - practical ways to optimise and boost social connection, drawing on research and evidence, and the work of Gotcha4Life.

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Jane Farmer is Director of the Social Innovation Research Institute at Swinburne. She has a distinguished track record of research in rural health services, innovations in health workforce and technology, community participation, coproduction and social enterprise.  Addressing disadvantage and social and health inequity is central to her research activity.

Gus Worland is an Australian television and radio personality and director and founder of mental health foundation, Gotcha4Life.In 2016, Gus hosted the TV documentary series on ABC, Man Upwhich exposed the issues of stoicism and isolation in society that can lead to significant mental health issues. At the end of this journey of discovery, Gus decided to set up a Foundation, to proactively encourage Aussies to speak up, express their emotions and ensure they all have a close friend in life that they can go to when times are tough. You will often hear Gus say, “suicide is the death of isolation” and he simply does not accept that eight beautiful people take their life every day.