Our research focuses on translational epidemiological and clinical research questions aimed at improving outcomes for those with mental illness in contact, or at risk of contact, with the criminal justice system. We work closely with partners and stakeholders, including Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network NSW, to ensure that research projects and outcomes are clinically relevant and impactful.
The team is committed to producing high-quality scientific research that will inform future policy and service development initiatives locally and nationally, as well as contributing to the international evidence base.
Our vision and purpose
Our goal is to understand and improve health outcomes for those with mental illness in contact, or at risk of contact, with the criminal justice system.
Our current research streams
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Moving Forward from Prison: Enhancing prison-to-community mental healthcare for First Nations People
Moving Forward from Court: Testing a care navigation intervention for First Nations people eligible for mental health court diversion in NSW
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Australian Forensic Patient Registry
NSW Forensic Patient Database
Forensic Patients in High Secure Settings
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Reducing self-harm and suicidality in vulnerable people in prison: piloting a structured approach to risk assessment and management
HARP-4: Improving health outcomes for people with a dual diagnosis released from prison: a multi-jurisdictional, prospective cohort study
Mental health screening in reception centresÌý
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Youth Needs in Custody analysis: A comprehensive analysis of the psychological, cultural, behavioral and social needs of young people accommodated in enhanced and high-risk support units​
Reception Screening & Safeguards service evaluation: The social and emotional wellbeing of young people in custody in NSW
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FORUM (Forensic Mental Health Research Group) recognisesÌýthe significant overrepresentation of First Nations peoples in the criminal justice system and is committed to conducting research that is culturally safe, strengths-based, and informed by Aboriginal voices and leadership. We seek to meaningfully engage with First Nations people and communities throughout the research process where possible, from project development through to implementation and dissemination.
Dr Elizabeth McEntyre, a Worimi Guringay and Wonnarua Elder and Aboriginal-led independent researcher, has worked closely with Professor Kimberlie Dean and the FORUM Group on a range of research projects involving First Nations peoples. Together, they have undertaken research using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies to explore issues affecting First Nations peoples in contact with the criminal justice system and develop evidence-based recommendations for service, policy and system changes.Ìý
In 2026, Dr McEntyre and Professor Dean established the NSW Aboriginal Community Reference Group for Forensic Mental Health Research. The ACRG-FMHR comprises Aboriginal members across New South Wales who provide cultural guidance, community perspectives, and research advice on research projects. The group aims to create opportunities for First Nations people to contribute their lived experience and expertise to research, while building members' professional skills, knowledge, and research capacity.
Grants
The FORUM group has successfully secured grant funding from a range of state and national agencies, including:
- Australian Institute of Criminology: Indigenous Justice Research Program
- Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network
- Medical Research Future Fund: Applied Research in Health Grant Opportunity
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Investigator Grant
- NSW Health: Translational Research Grants Scheme
- NSW Mental Health Commission
- Suicide Prevention Australia
Our publications
Our research team's most recent publications can be found in each team member’s profile below.
Access a summary of our systematic review findings here:Ìý
Our experts
Justice Health NSW Forensic Mental Health Research Fellowship Program recipients
Current
- Vezi Siso
Previous
- Yesha Patel
- Deborah Nahas
- Mariya Romanovich
- Soumya SomarajanÌý
- Farzana RahmanÌý
- Cortney Hitzeman
Supervisory experience
Research support and mentoring of ILP, Honours, Master and PhD students; supervision of RANZCP scholarly projects.
For volunteering opportunities:
Please fill out if you are interested in volunteering in research project(s) led by the team. If you have any questions about the form and/or process, please contact our Senior Project Officer Minh Thu Nguyen.