Scholarship-supported research project

Advancing social justice for survivors of historical child welfare systems

ACU is offering one full-time PhD Industry Scholarship to undertake research in the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences at the Ballarat campus.

This project will involve the successful candidate working collaboratively with ACU's Professor Nell Musgrove and staff at Child and Family Services (CAFS) Ballarat. The candidate will pursue a PhD project in one or more of the following areas relating to CAFS history and programs:

• Histories and legacies of children's institutions in Ballarat and region
• Making meaning of institutional histories in the 21st century
• Oral history and memories of children's institutions and foster care
• Records, archives, memory, and identity
• Community histories of family separation
• Implications of history on professional practice

On acceptance into the PhD, the successful candidate will refine their proposal and project aims in consultation with the industry partner.

CAFS and ACU's School of Arts and Humanities recognise the value of this kind of research to individuals and communities who have been impacted by historical welfare policies and practices that were often harmful, and both organisations are committed to historical justice, to standing with the survivors of abuse, and to contributing to the development of child safe communities. The intention of this scholarship is to support a project that will enhance knowledge in ways that advance social justice for survivors and the wider community. To help ensure the wider impact and social value of this project, part of the successful candidate's studies will include working with CAFS to develop a public outcome: such as a collection display, public programs, education resources, and gallery publications.

How to apply

Applications close: Friday 4 July 2025, 11:59 pm AEST

Eligibility

• This opportunity is open to domestic and international applicants.
• The eligibility criteria for the PhD program at ACU can be found in the Higher Degree Research Regulations.
• The eligibility criteria for research scholarships can be found in the ACU Research Training Program Scholarship Policy.

Requirements

In addition to the eligibility criteria, the successful applicant should be highly motivated, with a strong interest in academic and public history.

Application process

To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must submit all documentation required for an application to the PhD program at ACU, as detailed in the How to Apply instructions, plus:

• A CV detailing relevant academic and practical experience;
• A writing sample of 1,500-2,500 words; and
• A cover letter detailing demonstrated interest and/or experience in the program of research described.

When completing the PhD application form, please indicate that you are also applying for a stipend scholarship and include the name of this project "Advancing social justice for survivors of historical child welfare systems".

Before you apply

Interested candidates should contact Associate Professor Benjamin Mountford before submitting their application.