Louise Rubic transforming Australia's health education

Years of dance training helped spark Louise Rubic’s enduring fascination with the mechanics of the human body.

The public health and nutrition expert, who is a senior learning facilitator in the Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) at Torrens University Australia, can trace her passion for holistic health back to some of her earliest memories.

Her time as a dancer led her to a deep appreciation for movement and balance.

“I was constantly amazed at how the body could adapt, heal, and perform with the right care and attention,” she says.

Her passion for natural medicines also has deeply personal roots, developing after she saw the impact that natural therapies had on treating a chronic skin condition during her youth.

“This experience profoundly shaped my perspective and inspired me to learn more about how natural therapies could transform not only physical health but overall well-being.”

These early experiences set Louise on a career path focused on empowering others to maximise their wellbeing throughout all stages of life.

After a stint in the IT industry, she completed an Advanced Diploma in Naturopathy, Nutrition, Western Herbal Medicine, Remedial Massage and Homeopathy, which launched her Naturopath career in private practice.

Over more than 25 years, she’s built long-term relationships with clients, often working with entire families.

“Working in this field is all about empowering people to discover their own paths to better health and wellbeing. It’s always a joy to witness the unique and meaningful ways that journey unfolds for each person.”

Putting prevention on the agenda

Health literacy is a significant challenge in Australia and government agencies estimate that only 40 per cent of citizens have the level of health knowledge needed to meet the demands of everyday life.

Louise has made education on key health issues a focus of her career and provides expert comment on health and wellness in the media alongside her teaching and clinical work.

Her work has allowed her to shine a light on health topics that need more attention.

“I think more attention on chronic disease prevention and management is important for the whole population and its economic impact, not just on individuals,” she says.

One of her top focuses is the prevention of chronic disease and a focus on education about long-term risk factors for chronic conditions. Another area of passion is supporting Australians to maximise their health during a range of life transitions, including perimenopause.

“This is such a significant and often misunderstood time in a person’s life. There’s so much we can do to help people navigate these changes with confidence, comfort, and a better understanding of their bodies,” she says.

Empowering future practitioners

Nutrition students at Torrens University of Australia benefit from Louise’s decades of experience as they take theory from the classroom and start to apply it in a real clinic environment.

“As a clinic supervisor, it’s incredibly rewarding to see students move from initial uncertainty to a place of confidence and bravery,” she says.

Louise has also been central to bringing real-world examples and opportunities into the clinic so that students are prepared to thrive once they graduate.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, this included helping establish the first student telehealth clinic for a Health Sciences degree in Australia.

As well as honing their clinical skills, Louise helps students take a holistic view and consider how to support others during the different seasons and stages of their lives.

“I love educating clients and students alike on the power of prevention, the role of nutrition as a tool for health and healing, and the ways we can foster resilience through all stages of life,” she says.

“Watching [students] take ownership of their roles, develop their skills, and grow into competent practitioners ready to embark on their career journey is truly inspiring.”