Enablers and barriers of early years menstruation in organised sport - what key components of education are needed?
- Category
- Funded research project
- Location
- Ballarat, Berwick
- Value
- $50,000
- Open date
- 04/06/2026
- Close date
- 11/06/2026
- Study sector
- Higher education
- Study level
- Higher Degree by Research
- Student type
- Domestic
- Student status
- Continuing, New / commencing
- Scholarships available
- 1
- Additional eligibility criteria
- Current HDR candidates should indicate their interest in applying via an email to research.degrees@federation.edu.au with a research proposal of approximately 500 words, outlining their plans for the project. This should be done after consultation with Dr Meghan Casey.
Project Details
This PhD investigates the socioecological factors influencing how girls manage menstruation during their early years of participation in organised sport (ages 10–16, from menarche onwards). The research aims to identify enablers and barriers to participation and retention in community-level sport during this critical developmental stage. In addition, this study will explore the lived experiences of girls in sport to inform the co-design and development of the EndoPlaybook—a suite of educational materials and support strategies tailored for community-level sport settings. These resources will be designed to equip coaches, parents, and sporting organisations with practical tools to foster inclusive environments, reduce stigma, and promote sustained engagement for girls navigating menstruation and related health challenges.
Scholarship Details
Stipend: $40,000 tax free, per annum (paid fortnightly)
Top-Up: $10,000 tax free, per annum (paid fortnightly)
Project support: $3,000 per annum provided by an RTP Allowance
RTP Fee-offset Scholarship: $32,500 per annum covered
Funding length: 3 years (only, no extensions permitted)
Location: Berwick or Mt Helen
The internship will focus on the co-development of practical tools and educational resources for the EndoPlaybook to support girls navigating menstruation in community sport settings.
Scholarship applicants must be eligible to undertake a PhD. Verify you can meet eligibility requirements outlined on the Graduate Research School website. If you are applying for ‘Honours equivalence,’ please ensure that you provide detailed information to support your case.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest or background in menstruation, female athlete health, or gender equity in sport. Prior knowledge or experience in areas such as menstrual health education, youth sport participation, or quantitative and qualitative research with young people will be advantageous. Candidates with interdisciplinary training across sport, health, education, or social sciences are strongly encouraged to apply. Strong communication skills and an interest in translating research into practical educational outcomes are also desirable.
Applications will be accepted from Australian residents and permanent residents.
Applicants should contact Dr Meghan Casey prior to submitting an application.
Application closing date: 19th June 2026
How to apply: Applicants must submit their application with all necessary documents by completing the HDR Candidature application.
Current HDR candidates should indicate their interest in applying via an email to research.degrees@federation.edu.au with a research proposal of approximately 500 words, outlining their plans for the project. This should be done after consultation with Dr Meghan Casey.
Commencement date: 20th July 2026