Fredrik Velander

Teaching and Research Staff

Dr Fredrik Velander

Course Director Human Services Undergraduate Programs/Lecturer in Social Work and Human Services
Wagga Wagga
Building 26

Fredrik holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Mid Sweden University and a PhD from Curtin University of Technology. With a passion for social impact, he spent eight years as a research assistant at Sweden’s National Institute for Working Life, where he focused on health promotion, organizational and professional development, and alcohol and drug policy research.

In 2005, he took his expertise to Australia, joining the National Drug Research Institute at Curtin University as a project coordinator. Based in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, he led a dynamic community development initiative aimed at tackling excessive alcohol consumption. His work involved community assessments, social marketing strategies to shift norms, focus groups, and hands-on interventions to foster positive change. During his time there, he was invited to lead a comprehensive health screening initiative in the mining industry, gaining valuable insights into workers' well-being. Additionally, the Ngadjunmaia Indigenous community welcomed his expertise, inviting him to assist in evaluating the Norseman Voluntary Liquor Agreement—a significant initiative aimed at addressing alcohol-related challenges in the region.

Fredrik’s commitment to education and research led him to Charles Sturt University in 2010, where he became a lecturer in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales. His journey has since evolved, and he now serves as the Course Director for Human Services Undergraduate programs, shaping the next generation of professionals in the field.

Currently a member of:

  • Charles Sturt University's Indigenous Board of Studies
  • School of Social Work and Arts School Assessment Committee

Fredrik is currently supervising higher degree research students at Honours, Masters, Doctoral and PhD levels.

In 2008 he received his PhD in International Health from Curtin University of Technology. His thesis investigated prevention of alcohol related harm in the workplace by exploring the obstacles to and facilitators of good practice. Research interests include:

  • Mental health curriculum development
  • Yoga as complementary intervention in trauma-informed practice
  • Organisational and professional development, particularly in relation to healthy organisations
  • 2024 Charles Sturt Excellence Award Winner – Social Responsibility
  • 2020 Excellence in Teaching Team Award – Social Work Teaching Intensive School Team