Implementation Science Network

Implementation science seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice by understanding the processes, strategies and factors that influence the successful adoption of research discoveries into improved care.  

The study of implementation science generates knowledge and evidence about how best to facilitate the uptake and implementation of evidence-based approaches into healthcare.  

Researchers who embrace implementation science are more likely to: 

• Enhance the practical impact of their research by ensuring that interventions are successfully implemented and have tangible effects in real-world settings
• Build stronger partnerships with practitioners, policymakers, and community members, fostering collaboration and shared ownership of the research process
• Improve the sustainability and scalability of interventions by considering implementation factors from the outset and tailoring strategies accordingly
• Contribute to the broader field of knowledge in implementation science, advancing the understanding of effective implementation strategies and adding to the evidence base for successful translation of research into practice

HTSA's Implementation Science Network seeks to:  

• Strengthen the science and practice of implementation, related to health service delivery and research
• Develop a shared vision for collaboration to scale and sustain the implementation science sector in SA

Membership is open to researchers, clinical academics, clinicians, public officials and community members across South Australia who are already working in or interested in incorporating implementation science to their work. 

Network meetings are held four times a year as a mechanism for knowledge sharing and building collaborations and networks.

The Implementation Science Network (ISN) Executive Group works together to: 

• Provide advice around strategic opportunities to strengthen the science and practice of implementation science in SA
• Identify and pursue priority activities when relevant
• Drive networking and collaboration activities and events

Executive Group Membership includes key experts within South Australia 

• Prof Gillian Harvey (Flinders University; Network Co-Chair)
• A/Prof Natasha Howard (SAHMRI; Network Co-Chair)
• Dr Craig Lockwood (Adelaide University; Joanna Briggs Institute)
• Monica Novick (Commission on Excellence & Innovation in Health)
• Prof Saravana Kumar (Adelaide University)
• Rachel Newrick (SA Health, Implementation Science Unit)
• Prof Lillian Mwanri (Torrens University)
• Dr Dorsa Carroll (SA Health)
• Nicole Grivell (Flinders University)

Unlock impact: Implementation Science Network Forum – 2026 

These gatherings are designed to foster engagement and build capacity within our community. It’s the perfect space to share ideas, discuss progress, and celebrate the successes of implementation projects in a collaborative environment.

Students, researchers, research/health professionals, community partners and the curious are welcome.

Delivered 4 times a year, at SAHMRI, the Forum offers a mix of theory and practice, and is a place to learn from the speakers and from each other in an intimate and collaborative environment. 

Mark your calendars for the upcoming sessions and stay tuned for more details!

📅 2026 Dates : click below to register

24 June / 23 September 

View the June 2026 program here:

Program_ISN JUN2026

Health Translation South Australia (HTSA) has secured funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to support the sustainable and meaningful implementation of the Lived Experience Workforce Framework in public mental health services. Led by HTSA and partners across health, research and policy, the project will initially implement a Lived Experience (Peer) Workforce Framework at the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network (SALHN). By bringing together lived experience workers, health services, and key stakeholders, the project will identify practical learnings and recommendations to support statewide implementation.

Join us for a unique opportunity to explore power dynamics, how they can influence meaningful implementation of the Lived Experience (Peer) Workforce Framework in public mental health services, and what to consider in the early stages to ensure eventual scale-up.

We welcome submissions to present your implementation projects at the Forum. If you have a project you'd like to share or receive feedback on, we’d love to hear from you. Submit your project details and be part of the conversation. Expression of interest HERE.  

The Optimising older People’s Transition from acute care Into residential aged care through Multidisciplinary Assessment and Liaison (OPTIMAL) trial is evaluating a risk-stratified, nurse-led bundle of evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes for older adults discharged from hospital to residential aged care (RAC) for the first time. This hybrid type II stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial incorporates embedded process and economic evaluations and is being implemented across South Australia’s three metropolitan local health networks (CALHN, SALHN, and NALHN).

Guided by the i-PARIHS framework, the trial considers both effectiveness and implementation, with a strong focus on local context and facilitation. Core components include real-time identification of eligible patients, risk stratification using a clinician-accessible data dashboard, and tailored interventions delivered during transition. Implementation is supported by locally embedded nurse facilitators who adapt the model to fit each LHN’s needs.

Led by Flinders University in collaboration with the Registry of Senior Australians (ROSA), the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health (CEIH), and geriatric services across the LHNs, OPTIMAL seeks to reduce emergency department presentations and prevent avoidable readmissions—ultimately supporting safer, more coordinated transitions into aged care.

Find out more here: OPTIMAL

Have you recently completed a project you're proud of? Tackled a tough challenge with innovative solutions? Or achieved outcomes others could learn from? We want to hear about it. Share your story and help inspire the broader implementation community. Whether it’s a big win or a valuable lesson learned, your experience could be the next feature.

👉 Click HERE to get in touch to discuss how we can showcase your work.