Current, non-practising and past members of the Victorian Bar are eligible to participate in the “Working Life at the Bar” research project, which is being undertaken in conjunction with The Victorian Bar and Women Barristers’ Association.

The project’s primary aim is to inform current research around work-life balance, focussing on issues impacting on the professional and personal wellbeing of Victorian barristers.

According to the researchers, the study aims to identify the structural, personal and cultural factors that influence barristers’ working lives at the Bar through a mixed-methods approach, with quantitative data gathered by questionnaire and qualitative data obtained through interview.

The study will also report on initiatives that have been implemented by the Victorian Bar, and assess potential measures for improvement identified from past and present member feedback.

The Victoria University research team comprises barrister Ms Rebecca Leshinsky, legal academic and social scientist Dr Penny Weller, gender studies expert Dr Karina Smith, rhetorical studies expert Dr Tom Clark and experienced research officer Ms Ros Moye.

Collaborating partners are Ms Simone Jacobson from the Women Barristers’ Association and Mr Stephen Hare, General Manager of The Victorian Bar.

The study forms part of a research initiative supported by The Victorian Bar as part of its commitment to improving the working environment of barristers and those who are considering it as a career. It is funded by a research grant from Victoria University.

Participation is anonymous and voluntary, and the closing date for all questionnaires has been extended to the end of October 2008. A report will be made available at the conclusion of the research study.

Enquiries can be directed to Ros Moye via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone 03 9919 2302.