INVEST

The INVEST project (INternational students’ sexual & intimate partner Violence Experiences STudy) is funded by an ARC Discovery Project, and explores the nature, circumstances and impacts of sexual and intimate partner violence against female international students. INVEST is led by A/Prof Laura Tarzia and a team of multi-disciplinary researchers from Monash and Deakin Universities in partnership with the Multicultural Centre for Women’s Health. Prior research has largely neglected the experiences of international students, and there is a poor understanding of how to best support them. The INVEST project involves a national online survey of female international students currently studying in Australia, exploring their health, well-being, and experiences of sexual or intimate partner violence. It also involves in-depth interviews with students to capture their lived experiences and help-seeking needs. In 2023 we are developing a suite of culturally sensitive resources for students, educational institutions and practitioners to guide best practice. Publications forthcoming on international students’ help-seeking and findings from our national survey. Watch this space!