“Misogynistic men will always be misogynistic men, and they will find a way to criticise you.”

In this episode of Your Legal Big Sister, host Rebecca Johnston-Ryan speaks with Georgie Purcell, Animal Justice Party MP and one of the most unconventional and uncompromising voices in Australian politics today.

Together they explore Georgie’s “outsider” status and unexpected path into politics, the realities of misogyny and harassment, and her commitment to advocating for communities often excluded from public debate.

Georgie shares the story behind an open letter that helped drive landmark reforms to sexual violence court processes in Victoria, and explains why these changes are so significant for victim-survivors.

The conversation also covers sustained online abuse, the ways everyday misogyny and “locker room talk” contribute to wider patterns of violence against women, and what still needs to change to strengthen protections for sex workers.

Drop everything, and press play!

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“You’re not a bad lawyer because you need help. You’re a human doing really hard work.”

In this episode of Your Legal Big Sister, Beck is joined by Maddie Lynch, Managing Lawyer of the Family Law & Family Violence team at Fitzroy Legal Service, to talk candidly about the reality of working on the frontline as lawyers in the family violence space.

Together, Maddie and Beck discuss the hurdles and emotional demands commonly faced by practitioners, and the toll they can take in even the most rewarding of cases.

The conversation explores the dangers of burnout, vicarious trauma and that “crispy” feeling when the emotional weight begins to take its toll. They also share the protective factors that help them to keep going, from holidays and hobbies, to reflective practice, supervision and connecting with colleagues as part of a close team.

This episode offers a grounded look at the humans behind the legal work, and how wins both big and small work to help lawyers feel grounded, supported and able to keep showing up for their clients.

This episode continues our special season called Home Safe, a practical and informative resource for those experiencing family violence and personal safety concerns. Home Safe will provide expert guidance and practical strategies for navigating the family law system, seeking help and making informed choices, with a focus on inclusivity and support for diverse and vulnerable communities.

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"Your safety is paramount."

Welcome to Your Legal Big Sister, a new podcast hosted by Rebecca Johnston-Ryan of Johnston Ryan Legal.

This debut episode begins a special season called Home Safe, created as a practical and informative resource for those experiencing family violence and personal safety concerns. Across these episodes, Home Safe will provide expert guidance and practical strategies to help listeners navigate the family law system, seek help and make informed choices, with a focus on inclusivity and support for diverse and vulnerable communities.

In this episode, Beck begins at the beginning, unpacking the definitions of family violence under Australian law, the forms it can take, and some of the common misconceptions around what constitutes family violence. Beck identifies some of the real-world issues people face in getting support, and the obstacles that can make it difficult for many to engage with the legal process. Beck then provides a clear explanation of the family violence system, the process of applying for an intervention order, and the support services available to help you through.

This episode provides clarity and strength for those who are unsure of where they stand, supporting you to move forward to safety.

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