Mona Chatskin

I specialise in advancing qualitative theory, methods, and knowledge in media and communication, integrating insights from digital cultures, sociology, journalism, and ethno-cultural studies. I am particularly interested in exploring how digital communication influences the representation of marginalised communities and how these communities negotiate their identities through new media forms.

As an early career researcher, I completed my PhD at the University of Canberra's News and Media Research Centre (N&MRC) in 2025. My research examines mediatised public crises and their impacts on the secondary subjects of such events, specifically focusing on groups and voices typically underrepresented in media. My doctoral dissertation focused on the Malka Leifer case study of institutional child sexual abuse, utilising a social constructionist epistemological position to understand how knowledge was constructed during this public crisis, both within Australian news reportage and community discourse. My PhD research was part of the ARC-funded Breaking Silences discovery project (DP190101282).

I completed my undergraduate studies at Monash University, obtaining a Bachelor of Journalism (Honours). My Honours dissertation laid the foundation for my PhD research, examining another case of Jewish institutional child sexual abuse and its subsequent impacts on the Australian Jewish community. My growing track record of excellence in research and teaching is complemented by over six years of experience in professional communications within the not-for-profit sector.