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This project explores how young people (aged 18-34) interpret and respond to public and media discourse on gender-based violence (GBV), with a focus on the identity, relational, and contextual factors that shape their engagement with prevention initiatives. It tackles the critical challenge of volatile and polarising GBV narratives, which can alienate certain groups and overlook diverse perspectives. The project seeks to generate actionable insights to enhance the effectiveness of GBV prevention strategies, public campaigns, and educational programs.

 The study employs a multi-methods qualitative design, consisting of three interconnected stages:

This candidate will work within a team. They will select an aspect of the research to extend or examine in more depth to enhance the study’s contribution. For example, the candidate may investigate in more depth the utility of digital storytelling as documenting factors of engagement (Stage 2 of the study design). They will be involved in the project theory building and in dissemination activities. The team will provide research training and mentorship, e.g. specialised training relating to collaborative and creative research methods, analysis and dissemination, and the ethical conduct of research.

Background information

The PhD candidate will undertake research as part of the ARC-funded project Addressing Gender-based Violence in Volatile and Polarising Times, which investigates how young people (aged 18–34) interpret and respond to contemporary public and media discourse on gender-based violence (GBV) and related prevention initiatives.

While awareness of GBV has increased in Australia, this has occurred within an increasingly polarised gender landscape characterised by backlash narratives, online misogyny, and emotional disengagement, particularly among young men and gender-diverse youth. These dynamics risk undermining inclusive and effective gender justice efforts.

The candidate’s research will focus on examining young people’s engagement and disengagement with GBV discourse and initiatives, with particular attention to emotional, relational, and intersectional factors shaping their responses. Drawing on qualitative methods, the student will be embedded within one or more stages of the project, such as artefact-based workshops and/or digital storytelling, to explore how young people navigate conflicting narratives around feminism, masculinity, responsibility, and harm. The research will contribute to theory-building around gender justice as a dynamic, context-responsive process, conceptualising engagement not as binary but as fluid and multidimensional.

The project involves collaboration with national and international partners through an Expert Reference Group, including OurWatch, Respect Victoria, Equimundo, Beyond Equality, and Indigenous and multicultural organisations. These partnerships provide a strong applied context for the student’s work and support pathways for research translation and impact in policy, education, and community settings.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible you must: