Laura Vidal

Position

Lecturer, in Social Work

Qualifications

• BSW (Hons.1) | Masters Human Rights Law & Policy | PhD, Criminology

Biography

Laura Vidal is a Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Canberra. Laura completed her PhD in 2023 in Criminology with the Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre. Laura’s PhD research focused on young women’s experiences of forced marriage in Australia including the ways in which they both understand and define their experience, and, how they navigate support and assistance. This research emerged out of her direct practice as a social worker where she spent over a decade supporting individuals with experiences of gender-based violence (specifically, family violence in culturally and linguistically diverse communities); human trafficking and modern slavery; and individuals and families seeking asylum. Laura has practiced as a social worker across several not-for-profit organisations providing both direct support and working in research and policy. These experiences and insights drive Laura’s teaching and research. Laura is most passionate about education and research which can translate into direct outcomes for individuals and communities particularly in the fields of gendered violence, migration and maximising systems of intervention and support.

Contact

laura.vidal@canberra.edu.au