About the Team: 

The Wellbeing Office leads VU’s holistic wellbeing, equity and inclusion agenda for students and staff. It works collaboratively across the University to develop policies, programs and initiatives that enable people to thrive, participate equitably, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. The team partners closely with internal stakeholders and external organisations to deliver impactful wellbeing outcomes.

About the Role:
Victoria University is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join our exciting and newly established Wellbeing Office as the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response Lead. This pivotal role will drive the implementation of our sector-leading GBV Prevention and Response Plan 2026–2029, ensuring a coordinated, trauma-informed and evidence-led approach to safety, wellbeing and belonging for all students and staff.

As the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Prevention and Response Lead, you will provide the high-level expertise necessary to navigate complex sector reforms and emerging risks, ensuring our institutional framework integrates diverse perspectives and lived experiences. You will be responsible for translating strategy into action by designing impactful education campaigns and establishing the confidential reporting pathways essential for timely, compassionate support. This senior position offers a unique opportunity to influence cultural change at scale, leveraging data-driven insights and strong partnerships with specialist organisations to foster a best-practice environment across the entire university.

Position Key Duties:

• Lead and coordinate VU’s whole-of-university approach to gender-based violence prevention and response.
• Provide expert strategic advice to senior leadership on risks, reforms and best practice.
• Develop and maintain policies, procedures and systems supporting safe learning and working environments.
• Design and deliver education and training programs to build awareness and capability.
• Strengthen trauma-informed, culturally safe prevention and response practices.
• Coordinate effective, compassionate support pathways for students and staff.
• Analyse data and prepare reports to inform continuous improvement and governance.
• Build partnerships with internal stakeholders and external organisations.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives, committees and programs of work.
• Represent VU in sector forums and contribute to advocacy and thought leadership.

About You: 

You are a strategic thinker and collaborative leader, passionate about driving cultural change and advancing equity, safety and inclusion. You bring:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications (social work, psychology, public health, law, education or related discipline).
• Demonstrated experience leading gender-based violence prevention and response initiatives, ideally in higher education or complex organisations.
• Deep understanding of trauma-informed, intersectional and culturally safe practice.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Experience in education, training and building capability.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation, compliance and risk management.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion and continuous improvement.

About VU: 

At Victoria University (VU), they aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact‑driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, they put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual‑sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. They are a values‑led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.