From classroom to justice policy

For students considering a future in criminology and psychology, industry placements can offer valuable insight into how classroom knowledge translates into meaningful careers. 

For Clarisse Lust, a combined Criminology and Psychological Science student, a recent two-week placement with the Attorney-General's Department (AGD) provided exactly that opportunity.

Working within the Justice Policy and Analytics department, Clarisse contributed to important research supporting South Australia's Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA), gaining first-hand experience in data analysis, policy development and justice reform.

Exploring justice through data

During her placement, Clarisse worked closely with the Aboriginal Justice Agreement Team.

"For two weeks, my primary role consisted of assisting the Aboriginal Justice Agreement (AJA) Team with a review and analysis of data relevant to Aboriginal adults and youth within all domains of the Criminal Justice System (CJS)."

"This data included things such as police arrests and charges, sentencing and incarceration rates, in addition to youth detention and child protection involvement. Specifically, I was required to synthesise this data into a cohesive narrative for SA's AJA, which is a project intended to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to improve justice outcomes."

"The narrative I worked on highlighted emerging trends concerning Aboriginal peoples and their overrepresentation within the CJS, as well as possible factors contributing to these trends. I was tasked with creating an infographic to compliment the information provided in this narrative."

Beyond the technical skills she developed, Clarisse appreciated the opportunity to experience professional life within a government department.

"I thoroughly enjoyed getting a glimpse of the corporate workforce and seeing what careers in criminology may look like. I really enjoyed the office culture within the department and getting to know about everyone's roles and responsibilities."

Applying knowledge from the classroom

Clarisse credits her studies with giving her the analytical skills needed to successfully undertake the placement.

"My degree prepared me for this placement by providing me with the ability to understand and critically analyse data I'm presented with. For this task, not only was it important for me to accurately present the data, but it was also important to pull it apart and examine why the data may have looked a certain way (e.g. have reporting practices or changes in legislation contributed to apparent increases in crime?).

"The various research methods topics I have completed within my degree were exceptionally helpful in allowing me to understand the importance of context in data, and how this context is vital for informing subsequent action plans or policy."

Finding the perfect study path

Interestingly, Clarisse's academic journey did not begin focused on criminology, however, a few elective subjects opened the door to a new passion.

"Originally, I enrolled in university to study a psychology degree. After taking a few criminology topics as electives, I found I was really engaged by the content and assessment work, which inspired me to eventually transfer into a double degree in psychology and criminology."

"I have always been fond of research methods, which greatly motivated me to deeply engage in both data-focused topics and the work assigned to me during my placement."

Building connections and industry experience

For Clarisse, one of the most significant benefits of studying at Flinders has been the opportunity to connect with industry and gain practical experience.

"My time at Flinders has ultimately helped me get my foot in the door in the workforce with this industry placement."

"It provided me insight into how my studies can manifest in a corporate career while allowing me to establish connections with key people in these relevant fields."

Looking ahead

As she continues her studies, Clarisse hopes to combine the strengths of both disciplines in a future career focused on data, research and policy.

"I am hoping my criminology studies continue to provide me the necessary tools to engage with data and research relevant to the CJS, with my studies in psychology rounding out this skillset with an in-depth knowledge of human behaviour and social processes."

"In the future, I would thoroughly enjoy combining both these fields in a data-focused position, where both my statistical skillset and understanding of psychology provide a unique and critical insight."

"I hope to help inform CJS-related projects and policy regarding improving justice outcomes for vulnerable populations."