This PhD opportunity at the Centre for Health Economics, Monash Business School, offers a unique chance to investigate the economic causes and consequences of family and domestic violence (FDV) in Australia. The project sits at the intersection of economics, public policy, and social impact, addressing one of the nation’s most pressing challenges. FDV has significant economic and health implications, yet the influence of economic conditions on FDV risk and the long-term effects on victim-survivors and their families remain underexplored. As a PhD candidate, you will join a collaborative research team employing large-scale Australian datasets and advanced statistical methods to generate policy-relevant evidence and contribute to national decision-making.

The Centre for Health Economics is a leading research group in the economic analysis of health and health care, boasting the largest Health Economics PhD program in Australia and the highest concentration of health economists in the Asia-Pacific region. Monash University is ranked among the world’s top 50 universities and is renowned for its excellence in health economics. The research themes at the Centre include disadvantage and health, global and environmental health economics, economic behaviour and incentives in health, and economic modelling of health policies and technologies.

The Integrated PhD Program begins with a year of advanced coursework, research training, and a minor thesis as part of a Master of Commerce (MCom) degree. Upon meeting progression requirements, candidates move into the PhD stage, which typically takes three and a half years and includes further research training, professional development, and the completion of a written thesis. Candidates benefit from opportunities for domestic and international conference travel and potential international research visits.

Applicants 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 such as economics, econometrics, statistics, data science, public health, public policy, or social work with strong quantitative skills. English language requirements apply as per Monash Business School Integrated PhD Program. The ideal candidate is curious about how economic forces shape lives, enjoys working with data, and values cross-disciplinary collaboration. Genuine enthusiasm for the topic and interest in applied economics, econometrics, or public policy are important.

Successful candidates will receive a generous scholarship covering tuition fees and a tax-free stipend of $39,000 AUD per annum (up to $49,000 AUD per annum for outstanding students). Additional financial support is available through research and teaching assistance work. Graduates from the Centre for Health Economics have secured positions at leading universities and consulting firms worldwide, including the London School of Economics, University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University of Illinois, University of York, University of Melbourne, Australian National University, Ernst & Young, the World Bank, and government health departments.

To apply, select 'Health Economics' as your area of specialisation and follow the Integrated PhD Program application process via the provided link. The application round is currently open and closes on 1 February 2026. For project-related questions, contact Professor David Johnston at [email protected] For application procedure enquiries, contact [email protected]