ARC Discovery Grant Success for Prof Laura Tarzia and Dr Mandy McKenzie

This important new study, which will commence later in the year, will attempt to enhance recognition and response to sexual violence against women aged over 60 years of age.

Sexual violence is typically thought of as only a younger women’s problem but older women can also be victimised, harming their health and wellbeing. The project will draw on longitudinal data to examine the impacts of sexual violence for older women, undertake in-depth qualitative interviews to explore older women’s lived-experiences and support needs, and analyse media and legal documents to understand how sexual violence against older women is perceived.

Prof Laura Tarzia will lead the project together with:

• A/Prof Bianca Fileborn (The University of Melbourne, Criminology);
• Prof Deb Loxton (The University of Newcastle);
• Prof Heather Douglas (The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Law School); and
• Dr Mandy McKenzie (The University of Melbourne, General Practice and Primary Care).