Michelle describes receiving the award as deeply affirming, particularly in the context of the isolation and imposter syndrome that can accompany PhD research. The recognition reinforced that engaging rigorously with confronting topics such as sexual violence has value beyond the thesis itself and that this work matters to the broader field.
The awarded article presents a systematic review of the barriers adult victim-survivors face when reporting sexual assault and rape, as well as obstacles encountered during investigation, prosecution, and sentencing. Key barriers identified include lack of trust in the criminal justice system, internalised responses, rape myths and societal norms, and perpetrator-related factors—highlighting how attrition is shaped by both individual and structural forces.
Reflecting on her own journey, Michelle encourages early career researchers to celebrate milestones, acknowledge the emotional weight of criminological research, and prioritise rest and reflection. Her advice emphasises that sustainability and care—rather than speed—are essential for meaningful, long-term contributions to the field.
Each year, the Australian and New Zealand Society of Criminology (ANZSOC) recognises exceptional emerging scholarship through the PhD Candidate Award, celebrating the best sole or lead-authored paper in criminology by a PhD candidate.
At the 2025 ANZSOC Conference, this award was presented to Michelle Wieberneit from the University of Western Australia for her co-authored journal article, “Silenced Survivors: A Systematic Review of the Barriers to Reporting, Investigating, Prosecuting, and Sentencing of Adult Female Rape and Sexual Assault,” published in Trauma, Violence, and Abuse.
Michelle’s work makes a significant contribution to criminological understandings of sexual violence by systematically synthesising the structural, cultural, and personal barriers that continue to silence adult victim-survivors across the criminal justice process.
We spoke with Michelle about what the award means to her, the contribution of her research, and her advice for emerging scholars.
What does receiving this ANZSOC award mean to you?
I am immensely proud of this recognition. A PhD can be quite lonesome with Imposter syndrome being a constant companion. Receiving this award is affirming; it reminds me that this work matters and that the time spent grappling with difficult topics has value beyond the thesis itself.
Could you briefly describe the work or contribution recognised by this award?
The work recognised by this award was for a systematic review that synthesised the barriers adult victim-survivors of sexual assault and rape face when reporting their victimisation and the barriers faced once the cases progress through the criminal justice system. The review found a multitude of barriers with the most cited one’s lack of trust in the criminal justice system, internal reactions, rape myths and societal norms, and perpetrator characteristics.
What advice would you give to ECRs or emerging professionals in criminology?
Celebrate milestones, both big and small. The PhD and postdoc can feel isolating, and self-doubt has a way of showing up regularly. Also, remind yourself that the topics we work on in criminology are often heavy; it’s okay to step back, rest, and come back with clearer thinking. Sustainability matters more than speed.
