Bayside Resident Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor Named Victorian Senior of the Year

Bayside resident and human rights advocate Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor has been honoured with the Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year. This recognition celebrates her tireless efforts in preventing family violence and her groundbreaking work in advocating for victim-survivors.

A Lifetime of Advocacy

Manjula’s journey began long before her impactful work in Australia. Drawing on her years teaching and researching family violence in India and her 25-year career as a psychiatrist, she has become a beacon of change in addressing domestic abuse. In 2012, she co-founded the AustralAsian Centre for Human Rights and Health (ACHRH), a platform dedicated to research, advocacy, and support for communities affected by family violence.

Her unwavering commitment has driven transformative change. “I started the campaign to change the legislation of Victoria to include dowry abuse in the Family Violence Protection Act in 2019. Victoria became the first state to enact that legislation,” Manjula shared. Her advocacy paved the way for dowry abuse to be recognized as a form of economic abuse in the Federal Family Law Amendment Act 2023, a monumental step forward for family violence protections in Australia.

Raising Awareness and Empowering Communities

Manjula’s work extends beyond legislation. She has spearheaded research projects and hosted community events that have shed light on the complex and often hidden issue of dowry abuse. Her efforts were instrumental in triggering a Federal Senate committee inquiry into this form of economic and emotional exploitation.

By amplifying the voices of victim-survivors, she has not only influenced policymakers but also brought national attention to the mental health impacts of family violence. Through ACHRH, Manjula has tirelessly supported those affected, providing a lifeline of hope and empowerment.

A Legacy of Change

The Premier’s Award recognises not just Manjula’s contributions but the ripple effect of her work in shaping a more compassionate and equitable society. Her ability to combine professional expertise, cultural insight, and deep empathy has made her an unparalleled advocate for human rights and health.

As the first Victorian state legislation and federal amendments addressing dowry abuse demonstrate, Manjula’s advocacy is creating tangible change. Her story serves as an inspiration to communities everywhere, showing that steadfast determination can reshape systems and protect the most vulnerable.

Congratulations, Professor Manjula Datta O’Connor, for your remarkable achievements and well-deserved recognition. Your work stands as a testament to the power of advocacy and the importance of standing up for what is right.

Pictured: Premier Jacinta Allan in a red suit, Prof Manjula Datta O'Connor holding her award and Lieutenant-Governor of Victoria, Professor James Angus AO