Dr Brea Kunstler

Brea holds a PhD from Federation University Australia, where her thesis focused on the behaviour change techniques physiotherapists use to encourage physical activity among their patients. She also has a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from Deakin University, a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science, and a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy from La Trobe University. Brea is passionate about improving health at a local and global scale, with her work impacting both local and global policy.

As a generalist health researcher, Brea's current research involves reviewing literature, conducting surveys, and interviewing individuals whose behaviour is the target of interest. She has several peer-reviewed publications as the first author, has presented at numerous local and international conferences, and engages with industry by delivering professional development seminars.

In 2021, Brea completed a secondment with the National COVID-19 Clinical Evidence Taskforce, contributing to the development of living guidelines on the use of personal protective equipment in healthcare settings to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission. This work earned her team the Dean’s Award for Excellence in Research – Enterprise (Team) at the Monash University Vice Chancellor's Education and Research Awards.

In 2023, Brea led a team of researchers from various Monash University faculties to conduct a survey and interview study on attitudes towards the use of psychedelics for treating mental health conditions. Her work has significantly influenced national discourse on mental health treatments. Brea has also led projects to improve foster carer recruitment. The findings of her work informed policy and recruitment strategies by foster care agencies and were presented to government and industry leaders, demonstrating her commitment to engaging with communities to develop innovative solutions.

Brea is actively involved in co-convening an Australia-wide group of researchers and clinical physiotherapists called Physios4PA, which advises the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) on physical activity matters. She is also a mental health first aider and wellbeing champion at Monash University, promoting mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

In her spare time, Brea enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, running, and cycling. She has completed several marathons and cycled from Melbourne to Sydney in 2011 to raise money for Multiple Sclerosis research. Her personal commitment to physical activity strengthens her passion for research that focuses on the benefits of physical activity for good health.