Our National Crisis: Violence against Women and Children

Drinks with Prof Kate Fitz-Gibbon

Hosted by Prof Ian Dunn AM

Violence against women and children is one of Australia’s most pressing national challenges. Despite decades of inquiries, reform agendas and national plans, rates of domestic, family and sexual violence remain alarmingly high. Professor Kate Fitz-Gibbon will explore why this violence is not a series of isolated incidents, but a systemic crisis requiring urgent, whole-of-society reform. Drawing on her extensive research and policy advisory work, Kate will examine the key gaps in Australia’s current response and outline the transformative change required across prevention, early intervention, response and recovery. She will make the case that addressing this crisis demands shared responsibility - from politicians and corporate leaders, to community organisations, families, friends and neighbours.

Kate Fitz-Gibbon is a Professor (Practice) with the Faculty of Business and Economics (Monash University) and an Honorary Professorial Fellow with the Melbourne Law School (University of Melbourne). In 2024, Kate founded Sequre Consulting, which is committed to advancing safety and equality. Kate’s qualifications include a Ph.D. in Criminology, Masters in Human Rights Law, and a Graduate Certificate of Higher Education. She is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Kate is an international research leader in violence against women and children, perpetrator interventions, and the impacts of policy and practice reform. An award-winning researcher, Kate has authored 8 books and over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles. Kate has advised on homicide law reform and family violence reviews in Australia and internationally. Her research has been cited by the High Court of Australia. In 2021, she was appointed Chair of Respect Victoria, the state’s dedicated agency for preventing family violence and violence against women, and in 2024 she was appointed to the Victorian Children’s Council. In 2024, Kate was selected as part of the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders Class.

We are delighted to welcome Kate to Melbourne Forum. Please join her and your fellow members for this urgent conversation.