Annie has one goal she wants to achieve after her Graduate Certificate in Family Violence (Prevention and Practice) to set up a direct service for children and young people facing family violence.

During her work with crisis family violence organisations, Annie realised some staff did not know how to help children when they approached their services. Her plan is to create a safe space for children and young people to get advice on what they can do next. Surviving family violence as a child, Annie understands the trauma young people face and what they need to help them recover. Dropping out of secondary school due to family violence, she never imagined studying but found her calling in this sector.

Her studies at Chisholm have given Annie a deeper understanding of the underlying aspects of family violence and the risk factors. She has also learned about intersectionality, ensuring everyone’s voices are considered.

Annie loves to share her insights on children’s and young people’s experiences with family violence with her classmates. This has helped to bridge the gap between theory and real-world situations.

Annie’s value of diversity and her love of hearing others’ stories has created a more inclusive and open classroom environment.

Annie achieved high distinctions in every unit of the course, showcasing her academic abilities and dedication to learning. She also maintained an excellent attendance record throughout the course.

Annie is a member of the Victim Survivors’ Advisory Council (VSAC) and chair of the Children and Young People’s VSAC focus group. In this role, she works with the Minister for Prevention of Family Violence and Victoria Police. She also works with groups such as Safe and Equal, and The Orange Door.

Now qualified to work in frontline family violence positions, Annie can directly impact the lives of those affected by family violence.

Annie is a winner of the 2025 Chisholm Education Awards Higher Education Student of the Year – Domestic.

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