LSA Innovate Forum

The 2026 LSA Innovate Forum brought together researchers, academics, service providers, Participants and key partners at the Adelaide Pavilion on Tuesday, 1 September 2026.

The fourth annual LSA Innovate Forum brought together people from across the research, health and disability sectors to share knowledge and explore new ideas. The event showcased how research and collaboration can help improve recovery and quality of life for people affected by serious road trauma. The evening opened with a networking session, allowing attendees to connect with peers, exchange ideas and strengthen relationships across the research, health, disability and road safety communities.

LSA Board Member Dr Sian Goodson returned as emcee, with Mandy Turnbull, LSA Director of People and Partnerships, officially opening the Forum. LSA Chief Executive Dr Peta Smith also addressed attendees before introducing Luke Wilson from Kuma Kaaru, who delivered a Welcome to Country.

Attendees then heard from three researchers whose work is contributing valuable knowledge to improve treatment, rehabilitation and quality of life following traumatic injury.

Jill Williams, Senior Lecturer, Clinical Teaching Specialist and PhD Candidate at Flinders University, presented her research, From Roadside to Rehabilitation: Improving Outcomes for Older People After Traumatic Injury. Her presentation explored opportunities to strengthen care pathways and improve recovery outcomes for older Australians following traumatic injury.

Associate Professor Claire Jones from the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (Biomedical Discipline) at Adelaide University presented her research into cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in the context of spinal cord injury. Her work is helping to deepen understanding of the physiological processes associated with spinal cord injury and may contribute to future advances in treatment and care.

The final presentation was delivered by Dr Simon Mills, Physiotherapy Principal Clinician with the SA Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service. Dr Mills shared findings from the MASBI (Mobility and Activity after Severe Brain Injury) study, which examines activity levels, mobility skills and quality of life among adults who are not walking one month following an acquired brain injury. His research aims to improve understanding of recovery pathways and inform rehabilitation approaches that support better outcomes for people living with severe brain injury.

The LSA Innovate Forum demonstrated the important role of research, innovation and partnership in advancing outcomes for people affected by road trauma. The LSA extends its thanks to all presenters, attendees and partners for their contribution to a successful event.