Dr Hollie-Ann Shortland

Dr Hollie-Ann Shortland is a Lecturer and Course Coordinator in Speech Pathology at the University of Newcastle, with over 20 years of clinical experience and a strong academic and research background. She also holds an Adjunct Research Fellowship at the University of Adelaide.

Dr Shortland’s clinical expertise includes the assessment and management of complex swallowing disorders, voice disorders, and videofluoroscopic swallowing studies. She has worked extensively across public and private sectors, including multidisciplinary collaboration with ENT specialists, and has advanced experience in tracheostomy management and rehabilitation in head and neck cancer (including laryngectomy management).

Her research focuses on swallowing and oral health, particularly in aged care populations, and the impact these factors have on quality of life. She has led and contributed to multiple research projects exploring the use of myofunctional therapy and devices, olfactory acuity as an index of oral frailty, and recovery trajectories following head and neck surgery. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences, including the American Speech and Hearing Association Convention and the International Association of Orofacial Myology Convention.

Dr Shortland is also actively involved in professional education and peer supervision, regularly presenting on clinical protocols and innovations in swallowing and oral care. She has served as an invited panellist for the American Speech and Hearing Association Special Interest Group and contributes to the development of clinical guidelines and training for speech pathologists.

In her teaching role, Dr Shortland is passionate about connecting theory and practice to prepare future health science clinicians. She has coordinated and lectured across a wide range of subjects including anatomy and physiology, clinical simulation, professional practice preparation, and swallowing and voice disorders across the lifespan. Her commitment to excellence in education and research has been recognised through awards such as the University of Newcastle HDR Excellence Award for Industry Engagement.

Dr Shortland continues to contribute to the advancement of speech pathology through her clinical practice, research, and dedication to student learning and professional development.