One of Australia’s oldest feminist organisations, the Victorian Women’s Trust (VWT) has appointed Dr Kirsten Abernethy as its new Executive Director.
Bringing more than 20 years of experience as a social scientist, researcher and advocate, Dr Abernethy will take the reins from long-standing gender equality advocate Mary Crooks AO.
“Feminism has always been at the heart of my work,” said Dr Abernethy. “Examining issues through a gender lens is just common sense. In Australia, women make up more than half the population, yet are underrepresented in leadership; paid less; and face higher rates of violence. If we can improve outcomes for women, the whole of society benefits.”
Dr Abernethy’s appointment comes as the VWT celebrates its 40th anniversary.
“This is my dream job,” she said. “VWT has always been a fierce and compassionate voice for women, girls and gender diverse people. To lead the Trust — especially in its 40th year — is an incredible honour. I’m thrilled to carry this powerful legacy forward.”
Welcoming Dr Abernethy to the role, VWT Chair Alana Johnson AM describes her as “the perfect leader for this next chapter”.
“Kirsten brings unique expertise to the role,” said Johnson. “She’s worked extensively with fishing and seafood communities across Australia and overseas, always with a strong focus on worker rights and gender equality.”
“She’s principled, collaborative, and deeply committed to feminist values — those same values that have guided the Trust since 1985.”
Over the years, VWT has led major public initiatives and continued to fund grassroots projects through its annual grants program, supporting a wide range of needs, such as women exiting prison, migrant women seeking employment, programs for victim-survivors, and much more.
Outgoing Executive Director Mary Crooks AO has been in the role since 1997, and has helped shape the organisation into the feminist leader it is today. She launched the Purple Sage Project — a civic engagement initiative responding to widespread community concern under the Kennett government.
Since that time many thousands of people across the state and nation have reshaped public discourse and political outcomes by participating in the model now famously known as Kitchen Table Conversations.
“Mary’s capability and initiative has seen the Trust become synonymous with feminist thought leadership,” said Johnson. “She has led fearlessly on complex, often taboo issues, ranging from menstruation and menopause to women’s economic freedom and safety.”