Before the Harm
Preventing Abuse, Protecting Children
$15.96
- Paperback
96 pages
- Release Date
1 September 2026
Summary
Stories of child sexual abuse appear in the media weekly, often framed as isolated incidents. But child sexual abuse and exploitation is one of Australia’s most pervasive human rights challenges, affecting over a quarter of children. The ripple effect – the burden on mental health, drug and alcohol services – means all Australians pay for the damage wrought by these crimes. Yet we continue to see a crisis to respond to rather than a harm that could be prevented.
In Before the Harm…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781923451506 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1923451502 |
| Author: | Sonia Orchard |
| Publisher: | Monash University Publishing |
| Imprint: | Monash University Publishing |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Number of Pages: | 96 |
| Release Date: | 1 September 2026 |
| Weight: | 72g |
| Dimensions: | 20mm x 111mm x 175mm |
| Series: | In the National Interest |
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Sonia Orchard
Sonia Orchard is an award-winning author and a leading voice advocating for systemic reform in the prevention of child sexual abuse. Her memoir Groomed (2025), which chronicles her experience navigating the justice system as a complainant in a historic case, weaves lived experience with neuroscience, culture and law, and has helped catalyse national conversation and action. It is currently shortlisted for the 2026 National Biography Award and the 2026 Davitt Award.
Since its publication, Orchard has received widespread responses from survivors and engaged with policymakers, presented at conferences and appeared widely in national media, contributing to growing momentum for prevention-focused reform. She holds a PhD in Creative Writing from RMIT University and works with marginalised communities, using storytelling as a tool for agency, advocacy and change.
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