Late last year NSW Health launched a mentor program to strengthen clinical trial capability across rural, regional and remote areas of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, supported by funding from the Commonwealth’s Medical Research Future Fund.
The program is designed for clinical trial coordinators and research nurses working outside metropolitan areas and aims to build confidence, capability and connection by pairing participants with experienced mentors from across the clinical trial sector. By supporting career development and leadership pathways, the program helps ensure more patients can access high-quality clinical trials closer to home.
“Its purpose is to strengthen the clinical trials workforce in rural, regional, and remote areas by promoting professional development, collaboration, and knowledge sharing,” said Melinda Goldman, Community of Practice and Mentor Program Manager.
Key features of the mentor program include:
- tailored guidance from mentors with extensive clinical trial expertise
- opportunities to build professional networks and share knowledge across regions
- a structured framework that supports professional growth, leadership and workforce retention.
The first cohort commenced the tailored mentoring program in February, with six clinical trial staff matched with mentors.
One pairing brings together Sandra Montez, Clinical Trials Manager at Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, and Aroub Lahham, Clinical Trial Operational Lead in Southern NSW Local Health District.
Sandra manages a team of 13 staff and supports more than 45 active trials in children’s health. She has over a decade of international experience and specialises in starting new trials, running trial operations and ensuring high quality trial delivery to patients.
“Mentoring goes both ways. I learn as much as I give, and I enjoy helping others with the challenges of starting trials. Everyone should have access to trials close to home, and I’m proud to help support the next generation of trial leaders,” said Sandra.
Aroub has 10 years of experience working in research and clinical trials, including multisite studies and clinician training. She now leads trial startup and operations across Southern NSW and also works as a physiotherapist.
“I’m moving into a bigger leadership role, and having Sandra as a mentor helps me feel more confident. I want to help build strong, long-term research systems in regional hospitals, and learning from someone with her experience is a huge benefit,” said Aroub.
The mentor program is a key initiative of the Rural, Regional and Remote Clinical Trials Enabling Program (RRRCTEP). The mentoring relationship runs for five months, with two intakes across the year, and requires a commitment of up to 10 hours. The next cohort commences in July 2026. The mentoring program represents a critical investment in building a confident, connected and sustainable trial workforce across NSW and ACT.
Clinical trial professionals are encouraged to consider participating as a mentor or mentee.
For more information, contact Melinda Goldman.