Distinguished Professor Ben Mathews is regarded as one of Australia’s leading experts on how to prevent, detect and respond to child abuse and neglect. Through his work at Queensland University of Technology he has presented groundbreaking research into child maltreatment in Australia.
Ben led the research team behind the pioneering Australian Child Maltreatment Study in 2023 that interviewed 8,500 Australians about their childhood experiences of maltreatment. The project identified how many Australians had been exposed to abuse and neglect, and the consequences for them and society at large.
Ben’s research has played a vital role in determining how governments and legal systems can best identify and combat child abuse. His work has influenced major reform of legislation, policy and practice in multiple jurisdictions in Australia and overseas.
Ben’s invaluable research and expertise continue to offer a guiding light to help navigate discussions about child abuse in Australia.