Robyn trades the courtroom for the classroom to tackle domestic violence
After more than two decades working in criminal law, CQUniversity graduate Robyn Cathcart is embarking on a new challenge – pursuing a PhD that could help improve responses to domestic and family violence across Australia.
The Mackay-based legal professional recently completed CQUniversity's Graduate Certificate in Research, using the qualification as a pathway towards doctoral studies with the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research (QCDFVR).
Robyn's research is driven by questions she encountered throughout her legal career.
"I was looking at a lot of the offences coming before the courts and noticed that many of them were breaches of Domestic Violence Orders," she said.
"I wanted to know why, with all the legislation and support systems we have in place, the breaches are continuing. Why are the same people breaching orders 10, 15 or even 20 times?"
Over the years, Robyn has witnessed significant changes in domestic violence legislation and the types of matters appearing before the courts.
"I can see that the offences are getting worse, but I've also seen how the laws have changed over time and now capture a much broader range of behaviours and people," she said.
Rather than focusing directly on victims or perpetrators, Robyn's research examines the systems surrounding them, including behavioural change programs, support services and justice processes.
"In my research I want to look at the support services that are available and whether the way orders are enforced may contribute to ongoing breaches," she said.
Her interest in research stems from practical experience working with people charged with domestic violence-related offences.
"Working in criminal law, I often heard people say, 'I don't understand the orders'," she said.
"Then I started looking at how orders are enforced and whether there are issues there too. Those experiences made me want to explore the system more closely."
Before beginning her legal career, Robyn served in the Australian Army, an experience she credits with opening the door to higher education.
"I joined the Army when I was 20 and served for many years, including overseas," she said.
"I grew up in a very poor family and university never felt like a realistic option. The Army became my springboard and eventually allowed me to become a mature-age student."
Robyn completed her bachelor's degree in 2002 and later undertook an online master's degree during the COVID-19 pandemic. When she applied for a PhD, she realised she needed additional research training.
"I'd completed a master's degree, but it was in pure law, so I didn't quite have the research background I needed for a PhD," she said.
The Graduate Certificate in Research provided that foundation.
"It's probably the best thing I've ever done," she said.
"There were times I'd be sitting there with a dictionary looking up research terminology, but it's been great. It's opened up a whole new way of thinking."
Robyn said studying locally while balancing professional commitments made a significant difference.
"I've had a lot of support through CQUniversity. Studying in Mackay with the campus and in-person support has been a real game changer."
Her involvement with QCDFVR has also transformed her understanding of domestic violence and the complexities surrounding it.
"Working with the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research has really changed the way I think about domestic violence," she said.
"Once I saw the research and education programs they deliver, I thought, what a valuable resource. I couldn't believe we have such a vibrant research centre in Mackay."
Director of QCDFVR, Dr Heather Lovatt, said Robyn's professional experience gives her a valuable perspective as an emerging researcher.
"Robyn brings more than 20 years of frontline legal experience to her research, along with a genuine commitment to understanding how domestic and family violence systems can better support communities," Dr Lovatt said.
"The Graduate Certificate in Research provided a strong foundation for Robyn's research journey, and her proposed PhD has the potential to contribute valuable insights into how justice systems, support services and community responses can work together to improve outcomes."
As she prepares to commence her PhD, Robyn hopes her research will contribute to more effective responses to domestic and family violence, particularly for Indigenous Australians.
"I think it requires a whole-of-community and whole-of-justice-system approach," she said.
"Particularly when it comes to Indigenous Australians, I believe communities need to have a voice in what happens."
For others considering research later in life, her advice is simple.
"Go for it," she said.
"It's expanded my horizons enormously. People say to me, 'At your age, why are you doing it?' That's easy – because I can. I didn't have the opportunity when I was younger, but now everything is in place for me to do it."
Start your journey in Higher Degree Research like Robyn with a Graduate Certificate in Research.
