Natasha Ginnivan

Researcher, Health, Mental Health, Ageing & Wellbeing | NSW Inspector of Custodial Services Sydney, NSW

Dr Natasha Ginnivan is a distinguished researcher and passionate advocate in psychology, mental health, and ageing. She made a career change in her early thirties from product development and fashion design to the study of psychology and philosophy at the University of New South Wales Sydney. Alongside her academic studies, Natasha undertook a personal journey of 'inner work' that touches on Buddhist philosophies, mindfulness and the cultivation of empathy.

Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to understanding and addressing age stereotypes, ageism, and the complexities of mental health among ageing populations. She has made significant contributions to the academic and practical understanding of these critical issues.

Currently, Dr. Ginnivan is an Adjunct Lecturer and part time Senior Research Associate at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) School of Population Health, where she is part of the Justice Health Research Program. She is a member of the UNSW Ageing Futures, and is also an Associate of the UNSW Australian Human Rights Institute, highlighting her commitment to human rights in the context of ageing.

Dr. Ginnivan's current research focuses on the intersection of mental health, ageing, and marginalised populations. She has a particular interest in the health and well-being of ageing prisoners, a subject she has explored in depth. Her work includes a background paper for the Australian Association of Gerontology (AAG) on the challenges older individuals face when reintegrating into society post-incarceration and a submission to the United Nations Independent Expert on the human rights of older persons deprived of liberty.

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from UNSW and a Graduate Diploma in Psychology from Macquarie University. She then earned her PhD in Population Health, Psychology, and Ageing from the Australian National University (ANU). Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her ongoing exploration into how implicit and cultural attitudes towards ageing, stigma, and self-perceptions impact the lived experiences of older adults, including those living with dementia.

In addition to her academic roles, Dr Ginnivan is the founder of http://EdgyElders.com.au , a platform dedicated to challenging age-related stereotypes and promoting positive ageing. She is also a prolific writer, contributing to http://MobilisingWisdom.com ,where she shares insights on ageing and transformation.

Through her multifaceted career, Dr. Natasha Ginnivan continues to advocate for the rights and dignity of older adults, striving to mobilize wisdom and foster a society that values and respects its ageing population.