Career highlights

• Began career as a teacher and then moved into educational psychology lecturing at Deakin University, Melbourne.
• Undertook further study and training to become a registered psychologist and worked in schools, the Austin Hospital and then in her own part time private practice.
• Has authored and co-authored, 22 books for teachers, psychologists and the general community, as well as presented at many professional learning workshops and keynote addresses, nationally and internationally, and has been involved with many key federal and state government research projects.

Question and answer

Why is the issue of bullying of particular interest to you?

So many people, in both my counselling practice and elsewhere, have spoken to me about the pain and damage that they have experienced as a result of being bullied.

Where do you believe you have made a difference in your field?

I believe I have made a difference through my work in redeveloping (with colleagues) the 2011 version of the National Safe Schools Framework. Also, through my work in the initial development of The Alannah and Madeline Foundation's eSmart system and my professional learning workshops with schools, universities and other organisations in Australia.

How has your area of expertise helped you to contribute to NCAB over the years?

Together with Dr Toni Noble, I was able to create and co-edit Bullying Solutions; a book of readings written by NCAB Advisory Council members, to help people manage and prevent bullying instances. My ongoing work with the Federal Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations and the Victorian Department of Early Education and Childhood Development, has helped to build and strengthen links between NCAB and government organisations.