In the lead up to the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Swinburne University of Technology, in partnership with Rape and Sexual Assault Research and Advocacy (RASARA), hosts a special screening of the acclaimed documentary SILENCED, followed by a conversation with leading voices in law, advocacy and social change.

SILENCED follows internationally renowned human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson as she explores how defamation laws can be used to silence survivors and journalists, and highlights the individuals working to challenge these systems and drive reform. The film has been described by Screen International as "an essential, galvanising watch".

Following the screening, attendees will hear from a distinguished panel including Brittany Higgins, Michael Bradley and Dr Rachael Burgin, who will discuss the issues raised in the film and the ongoing work required to improve responses to sexual violence.

Doors open: 6.00pm

Film screening commences: 6.15pm

Panel conversation commences: 7.55pm

This free community event is open to students, staff and members of the public.

Panel Members

Brittany Higgins is an Australian advocate for gendered violence and workplace harassment. After speaking publicly about her alleged assault in Parliament House, she helped expose widespread cultural and structural failures, prompting multiple national reviews and major reforms. Her advocacy has contributed to stronger workplace-safety standards, independent reporting mechanisms for government employees, survivor-centred policies, affirmative-consent laws and improved protections for victims in court.

Michael Bradley is Managing Partner of Marque Lawyers, Chair of Rape and Sexual Assault Research and Advocacy (RASARA), and a widely published writer. His work includes the 2021 book System Failure: The Silencing of Rape Survivors. Through his human rights practice, Michael has worked with hundreds of survivors, whose experiences inform his advocacy for fundamental reform to the justice system’s response to sexual violence. He and his colleague Lauren Gasparini are currently conducting research with 60 survivor clients about their experiences of the criminal justice process, with a comprehensive report planned for early 2027.

Dr Rachael Burgin is a Senior Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Criminology at the Swinburne Law School and is Chief Executive Officer of Rape and Sexual Assault Research and Advocacy (RASARA). She is a leading scholar and advocate working at the intersection of law reform, policy and practice to improve responses to sexual, domestic and family violence.

Moderator: Bridget Hustwaite is an Australian presenter, bestselling author, podcaster.

About the Film

Please note: this film and panel discussion address themes including sexual violence, gender-based violence and victim-survivor experiences. Attendees are encouraged to consider their wellbeing when deciding whether to attend

Contact the host of Screening of SILENCED: Film and Panel Conversation

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