INFTA has successfully completed the data collection for the research project termed “Effective Stress Reduction in Nature“. This project aimed at effectively bringing down stress levels of international students to improve their mental and physical health. It was partially funded by a grant of the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Region in Victoria. It was part of the Study Melbourne Inclusion Program which has funded 162 projects to the value of $7.3 million and supported more than 235,000 international students since its inception in 2015.
INFTA led a consortium of researchers and executive staff from Deakin University, RMIT, Federation University and the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Free Forest Therapy sessions were offered to international students in Melbourne but also in Ballarat and Geelong so that students studying at regional campuses were able to take part. Ethics clearance for this important clinical trial was obtained from the regional health provider, Barwon Health. We thank all international students who supported this research project. A summary report will be provided to international students at the end of January 2026 with an international publication in a Q1 journal to follow during the first half of this year.
