PhD in Economic Causes and Consequences of Family and Domestic Violence

Location: Caulfield campus, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia

Duration: 4.5-year fixed-term appointment

Employment type: Full-time

Remuneration: You will receive a generous scholarship covering tuition fees and a tax-free stipend at current value of AU$39,000 per annum (up to $49,000 per annum for outstanding students).

Additional financial support is available through research and teaching assistance work. 

The opportunity

This PhD offers the chance to work on a project at the intersection of economics, public policy, and one of Australia’s most pressing social challenges; family and domestic violence (FDV). FDV has profound economic and health consequences, yet the ways economic conditions shape FDV risk, and the long-run effects on victim-survivors and their families, remain poorly understood. The candidate will join a collaborative research team using large-scale Australian data and modern statistical methods to produce credible evidence on these issues. The project provides an opportunity to contribute crucial, policy-relevant research that can support national decision-making while advancing academic knowledge.

Who we’re looking for

This project is a good fit for researchers who are curious about how economic forces shape people’s lives and for those who want to apply empirical tools to questions with real social impact. It will suit those who enjoy working with data, thinking carefully about research design, and collaborating with a cross disciplinary team. A background or strong interest in applied economics, econometrics, or public policy will help, but genuine enthusiasm for the topic is also important.

Relevant educational qualifications include economics and econometrics. We will also consider applicants with mathematical or statistical qualifications, such as data science or statistics, as well as those from fields such as public health, public policy, or social work who can demonstrate strong quantitative skills. Formal entry requirements are outlined below.

For questions about the project or to discuss whether the project is a good fit for you, you’re welcome to contact:

Professor David Johnston at david.johnston@monash.edu

Integrated PhD Program

The project is based in the Centre for Health Economics (CHE), a large and active economics research group within the Monash Business School.

As a candidate in the CHE Integrated PhD Program, you will receive rigorous training in advanced health economics, econometrics, and related studies.

The Integrated Program begins with a year of advanced coursework, research training and a minor thesis, completed as part of a Master of Commerce (MCom) degree. Provided you meet the progression requirements, you will then move into the PhD, which offers further research training and professional development, culminating in a written thesis. The PhD stage typically takes three and a half years to complete.

You will also enjoy opportunities for domestic and international conference travel and the potential to undertake international research visits.

PhD Program entry requirements and scholarship eligibility

Applicants to enter the 4.5-year Health Economics PhD program should have completed an Honours degree, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree or a Master's degree with top marks and a research component in a relevant discipline. 

You can check your eligibility with the PhD readiness tool.

For full information on eligibility and English language requirements, please visit the Monash Business School Integrated PhD Program page.

Applications

Before applying, note the following:

• When prompted, select “Health Economics” as your area of specialisation

To apply, please click the 'Apply' button

All eligible applications will be assessed, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted to meet with the supervisory team and discuss mutual fit for the project.

Application dates for the commencement of the Integrated PhD program in July/August 2026:

Application round is currently open.

About Monash and the Centre for Health Economics

The Centre for Health Economics is one of the world’s leading research groups in the economic analysis of health and health care. We have the highest concentration of economists working in health in the Asia-Pacific region and the largest Health Economics PhD program in Australia, reflecting the reputation of our researchers and the quality of their mentorship.

Monash is one of the top 50 universities in the world, ranked top in health economics in the Asia-Pacific region. As a PhD student of the Centre, you will be part of a team of researchers at the cutting edge of impactful international research across research themes including: disadvantage and health; global and environmental health economics; economic behaviour, incentives and preferences in health; and, economic modelling of health policies and technologies. 

Employment prospects

PhD graduates from the Centre for Health Economics typically find employment as researchers in leading universities and consulting firms around the world. For instance, our previous graduates have been successful in gaining positions at the London School of Economics, the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, the University of Illinois, the University of York, the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, Ernst & Young, the World Bank and government health departments.

Enquiries

For questions related to the application procedure and eligibility, please contact buseco-research.degrees@f.e.monash.edu.

Supporting a diverse workforce

Monash University recognises that its Australian campuses are located on the unceded lands of the people of the Kulin nations, and pays its respects to their elders, past and present.