Sue Field, Adjunct Associate Professor and PhD candidate at the University of New England's School of Law, has dedicated her career to Elder law, focusing on the critical legal issues faced by older Australians.
With a unique blend of professional experiences, Sue’s research is focused on what she identifies as a "massive knowledge deficit" in understanding the legal complexities impacting older people - both within the community and among professionals.
Born and raised in Adelaide, Sue’s professional journey has taken her across multiple states, starting as a secretary before becoming a registered nurse. Her transition into law came later in life, after years of living in remote areas of Queensland, and raising a family.
It wasn’t until she moved to Armidale that she enrolled in tertiary education, earning degrees in both arts and education. Sue became interested in Elder law whilst studying in Tasmania, an interest that led to her becoming a Public Trustee NSW Fellow in Elder Law.
Sue’s PhD research is focused on developing an innovative teaching model for Elder Law, one designed to cater to various professional needs.
While legal concepts like mental capacity and informed consent are important across the board, Sue argues that not everyone requires the same depth of knowledge. Her model aims to tailor legal education for different “market segments,” such as healthcare providers, legal practitioners, and families, ensuring that each group is equipped with the relevant tools to navigate the legal landscape for older people.
“There’s an urgent need to educate people about the legal issues affecting older Australians,” Sue explains. “Too often, people find themselves in difficult situations—whether it’s dealing with powers of attorney, aged care, or guardianship—completely unprepared. My research is about closing that gap.”
There’s an urgent need to educate people about the legal issues affecting older Australians.
Throughout her career, Sue has balanced academic work with practical engagement. She has co-edited Australia’s only peer-reviewed Elder Law journal and consulted widely on legal issues related to ageing. This combination of teaching, research, and consultancy ensures that her work remains grounded in the real-world challenges older people face every day.
Now in the final stages of her PhD, Sue’s enthusiasm for her research remains as strong as ever.
“What excites me most is the practical impact my work will have,” she says. “Whether it’s at an international conference or a small regional library talk, I hope to empower people to ask the right questions and understand their legal rights.”
Sue’s research promises to benefit a wide range of professions and communities, including healthcare workers, legal professionals, and, most importantly, older Australians and their families.
With her focus on making Elder Law accessible and practical, she is determined to ensure that navigating the legal issues of ageing is no longer a daunting or confusing task for anyone involved.
Outside of her academic pursuits, Sue is an avid rower, a promising cellist, and a voracious reader. She is also the devoted owner of a 16-year-old Australian Shepherd, who keeps her grounded through the intense final months of her PhD.
For Sue, UNE has been home for much of her academic journey.
"All but my law degree has been awarded by UNE," she says with pride. “With the finish line of my PhD in sight, I’m grateful for what UNE has contributed to my professional growth, both as employee and student.”
