Dr Amy Johnson
Military Families Researcher & Senior Lecturer

As both a researcher and a Royal Australian Navy Reserve officer, I bring a unique blend of academic expertise and lived experience to my work at CQUniversity. My research centres on understanding how military service shapes the lives of Defence families, veterans and children—a passion deeply informed by my own experiences as both a serving officer and the partner of an ADF veteran.

I'm currently leading several impactful research initiatives, including the HomeFront Stories Project, which explores how creative writing workshops support military spouses, and the Veterans, Food and Families Project examining social connection through food in veteran communities. My work has attracted nearly $60,000 in external funding and generated publications with remarkably high impact metrics—two of my papers have Altmetric scores in the top 5% of all research outputs measured.

My national reputation in Defence community research has led to invitations that place CQUniversity at the forefront of this field, including contributing to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and advising on Australian Government policy. I've been honoured to receive recognition for this work, including being a finalist for the Prime Minister's National Veterans' Employment Awards and being invited to the King's Trust Beyond Service Awards by the Governor-General.

As Head of Course for both the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Professional Communication, I'm passionate about creating innovative learning experiences that prepare students for real-world success. This commitment to education has been recognised through student-nominated teaching accolades and my Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

When I'm not researching or teaching, you might find me on Defence service leave in my Public Relations Officer role with the Royal Australian Navy Reserve, or serving as a Director on the Legacy Brisbane Board, supporting families of those who gave their lives or health in service.

I believe strongly in research that changes lives through authentic engagement with communities. I welcome connections with potential collaborators, students interested in studying military sociology, or anyone passionate about supporting our Defence communities.