The Gender-Based Violence Scholarship 2026 in Australia is a fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Wollongong (UOW). This interdisciplinary research project examines gender-based violence in the context of work, focusing on how structurally disadvantaged workers experience reporting processes, help-seeking pathways and access to justice in NSW. The scholarship covers tuition and provides a stipend of $36,943 per annum for 3.5 years.
The University of Wollongong is a leading Australian university known for its strong research culture and commitment to social impact. The successful candidate will be based in the Faculty of Arts, Society and Business and supervised by experts in law, criminology, sociology, and social work. The project is part of the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Doctoral Training Program, offering a supportive network and real-world engagement with community legal and social service organisations.
Gender-Based Violence Scholarship Benefits
- UOW Base Rate ($36,943 per annum for 2026)
- Duration of 3.5 years
- Opportunity to work with community legal and social service organisations
- Supportive network of senior scholars, early career academics and HDR peers
- Engagement with policy and practice communities
Gender-Based Violence Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Hold an Honours Class 1 or honours with relevant research experience or a master’s degree (with a major research component) in criminology, law, sociology, social work, gender studies, public policy, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong academic record and capacity for independent research
- Demonstrated interest in gender-based violence, work and employment, law and justice, or related fields
- Experience with qualitative, participatory, feminist and/or trauma-informed research approaches (desirable)
- Ability to work collaboratively with industry and community partners
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Must commence by 31 August 2026
Research Focus Areas
Applicants may explore a wide range of themes related to gender-based violence and work. Potential research areas may include:
- Workplace harassment and discrimination
- Gendered violence in professional settings
- Power dynamics and labor exploitation
- Organizational responses to workplace violence
- Domestic violence and its impact on employment
- Gender inequality in labor systems
- Psychological and emotional impacts on workers
- Legal protections and workplace policies
- Prevention and intervention frameworks
- Vulnerable workers and marginalized communities
- Intersectionality in workplace violence experiences
- Global and comparative workplace studies
Candidates are encouraged to develop innovative and impactful proposals aligned with these broader themes.
How to Apply for Gender-Based Violence Scholarship
- Submit a 3-4-page research proposal aligned with the project theme
- Submit a curriculum vitae
- Submit academic transcripts
- Submit a cover letter (one page) outlining motivation, research interests, relevant experience and suitability
- Provide contact details of 2 referees, including at least 1 academic referee
- Submit proposals by Monday 29 June 2026
- For informal enquiries, contact Associate Professor Sarah Ailwood ([email protected])
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Gender-Based Violence Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this fully funded PhD opportunity at the University of Wollongong.
What is the Gender-Based Violence Scholarship?
It is a fully funded PhD scholarship at the University of Wollongong (UOW) for research on gender-based violence in the context of work, focusing on reporting, help-seeking and access to justice in NSW.
What is the scholarship amount?
The scholarship provides a stipend of $36,943 per annum for 2026, which is the UOW Base Rate, for a duration of 3.5 years.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must hold an Honours Class 1 or a master’s degree with a major research component in criminology, law, sociology, social work, gender studies, public policy, or a related discipline. Both recent graduates and professionals are welcome.
What is the application deadline?
The closing date for applications is 29 June 2026. Proposals must be submitted by this date.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants need to submit a 3-4-page research proposal, a curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a one-page cover letter, and contact details of 2 referees (at least one academic).
Can I work while doing this PhD?
Yes, the successful candidate can maintain paid employment as long as it does not adversely affect satisfactory academic progress on the PhD.
When must the successful candidate commence?
The successful candidate must commence by 31 August 2026.
Who are the supervisors for this project?
The supervisory team includes Associate Professor Sarah Ailwood (Principal Supervisor), Dr Rachel Loney-Howes (Secondary Supervisor), and Dr Laura Vidal (Associate Supervisor).
What research topics are encouraged?
Potential projects may focus on barriers to reporting, help-seeking experiences, effectiveness of integrated legal and social service models, or policy and systemic reforms related to gender-based violence in work contexts.
How do I contact for informal enquiries?
For informal enquiries about the project and supervisory team, please contact Associate Professor Sarah Ailwood at [email protected].
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