Laura Burge is an expert in the theory, planning and development of respectful and inclusive communities having honed her skills over the course of a career spanning two decades in student affairs across multiple higher education institutions, and a past participant in the WATTLE Program. She has received recognition and numerous awards for her work across the student experience sector in relation to diversity, equity and inclusion, global community outreach, innovation, leadership and student wellbeing.
As Senior Manager, Gender Equity, Respect and Inclusion at Deakin University, she leads University-wide strategies, programs and initiatives to promote respect, gender equity, inclusion, mental health and prevent sexual harm. This includes engaging internal and external stakeholders to ensure that the University fulfils its positive duty, legislative obligations, and leads sector best practice.
Past leadership roles within higher education include President of the Australian and New Zealand Student Accommodation Association (APSAA), Chair Professional Development (APSAA) and as member of the Faculty for the Global Housing Training Institute. She is currently serving on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Australia and New Zealand Student Services Association (JANZSSA), a Steering Committee member for WATTLE (Women in Leadership) Program, and the Network Coordinator for Victorian Tertiary Primary Prevention Network. She holds a Masters in Education, and Bachelor of International Relations (Hons).