The Federal Government has announced Professor Anne Edwards as the inaugural chair of the new National Centre of Excellence established to reduce domestic and family and sexual violence.

Federal Minister for the Status of Women, Julie Collins, announced the appointment after a meeting in Canberra earlier this week.

“Professor Edwards is an expert in gender and sexual studies who will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the new Centre,” Ms Collins said.

“Professor Edwards’ contribution to the study of violence against women has earned her great respect - in particular, her research on sexual assault cases in the criminal justice system.

“Professor Edwards’ experience will be invaluable as she leads the Centre in developing a national research agenda to help guide future investment, policy and services in the prevention of violence against women across Australia.”

 “I’m delighted to accept this role and look forward to shaping research into violence against women and their children,” Professor Edwards said.

“Only by understanding the extent of the problem and by drawing together national and international research, can we hope to address this issue that affects far too many in our community.”

Ms Collins said the Centre will provide a central point for researchers, policy makers and practitioners in the fields of domestic, family and sexual violence to link up and provide evidence-based responses to reduce domestic, family and sexual violence.