Current Projects

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Long Term Research Projects

Identifying Suicidal People Who May Also Commit High-Harm Violence
The association between suicidal behaviour, self-harm, and interpersonal violence has long been recognised, yet opportunities for early identification and intervention remain limited. This study aims to deepen understanding of this relationship by using police data to identify individuals experiencing acute distress who may also present a heightened risk of serious violence. Drawing on police records, including welfare checks, suicide and self-harm incidents, the use of emergency mental health powers, drug and alcohol-related events, violent offending, and patterns of escalating police contact, the research will examine indicators associated with both self-directed and outwardly directed harm. By identifying the characteristics and trajectories of individuals responsible for the greatest levels of harm, the study seeks to develop evidence-based approaches for predicting periods of acute crisis and elevated violence risk, enabling earlier and more effective intervention.

Offending Patterns of Individuals Involved in Child Exploitation Material Offences
Queensland is internationally recognised for its proactive and highly effective approach to identifying and investigating individuals involved in the use, possession, distribution, and production of Child Exploitation Material (CEM). Through its specialist investigations, Task Force Argos has identified a substantial number of offenders over the past decade, creating a unique opportunity to better understand the pathways into and patterns of this offending. This project will examine the complete offending histories of individuals with solved CEM offences recorded by police. Using longitudinal and trajectory-based analytical methods, the study will identify key patterns of criminal behaviour, escalation pathways, co-occurring offences, and risk factors associated with CEM offending. The findings will contribute to a stronger evidence base for prevention, early intervention, and investigative strategies, with the aim of reducing both the incidence of CEM offences and the harm caused to children and communities.

Identifying High-Harm Domestic and Family Violence Offenders
Research spanning more than three decades has demonstrated that domestic and family violence (DFV) offenders are not a homogeneous group. While many individuals come to police attention for DFV-related incidents, a relatively small proportion are responsible for a disproportionate share of the most severe and persistent harm. This project aims to identify and profile high-harm DFV offenders by examining patterns of offending, escalation, and criminal careers. Existing evidence suggests that individuals responsible for the most serious domestic and family violence are often also involved in significant violence and criminality beyond the family setting. Understanding these connections is critical to improving risk assessment and prevention strategies. Using police and justice system data, the study will develop evidence-based methods for identifying offenders who pose the greatest risk to victims, families, and the broader community. By mapping pathways into high-harm offending and identifying key indicators of escalation, the project will support earlier intervention, more targeted resource allocation, and enhanced strategies to prevent serious violence before it occurs.

Identifying Patterns in Withdrawn Allegations and Subsequent Offending
Sexual offences and domestic and family violence matters are characterised by relatively high rates of complaint withdrawal. Individuals may choose not to proceed with a complaint for a range of reasons, including fear of retaliation, concerns about participating in the court process, emotional distress, relationship dynamics, or the prospect of lengthy legal proceedings. This project will examine patterns associated with withdrawn allegations in sexual offence and domestic and family violence cases. Using police and justice system data, the study will explore the circumstances in which complaints are withdrawn and whether identifiable patterns emerge across cases. The research will also examine the subsequent offending trajectories of individuals who were the subject of withdrawn allegations, regardless of whether charges proceeded or convictions were obtained. By analysing broader offending patterns, repeat allegations, and other indicators of criminal involvement, the project aims to provide a clearer understanding of the relationship between withdrawn complaints and future criminal behaviour. The findings will contribute to evidence-based policy and practice by identifying potential gaps in current responses and assessing whether alternative investigative, prosecutorial, or prevention approaches may be required to better protect victims and reduce harm within the community.