Deakin University appoints new Dean of Deakin Law School

Professor McMahon has been Deputy Dean of the Deakin Law School since 2017 and has been acting as Dean of Deakin Law School since May 2023.

Executive Dean of Deakin's Faculty of Business and Law Professor Jenni Lightowlers said Professor McMahon exemplified Deakin Law School's aspiration to be a catalyst for positive change, through a progressive approach to scholarship, teaching, advocacy and community engagement.

"Marilyn is respected by all who work with her for her passionate commitment to the law and how it can be used to support those in need. She is also a person of great integrity and a compassionate and caring colleague," Professor Lightowlers said.

"At Deakin Law School our staff blend deep expertise in legal research and practice, making significant contributions to the law, the profession and to vital debates in our society. Marilyn is a true leader in how we use our expertise to make a meaningful change in the world.

"On behalf of Deakin I want to congratulate Marilyn on this appointment. It's a positive endorsement of the sterling job she has done while acting in the role and that she will continue to do in the future."

Professor McMahon graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) majoring in psychology. She completed a Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology at Monash University and then obtained a PhD in law (with distinction) from La Trobe University.

In addition to her background in law, Professor McMahon is a registered psychologist. Her teaching and research are principally in the fields of criminal law, criminal procedure, and evidence. She has a particular interest in laws relating to domestic and family violence and is a co-convenor of the Deakin Network Against Gendered Violence.

Professor McMahon has consulted for various governments on criminal justice issues and is currently Chair of Victoria's Sentencing Advisory Council, as well as a member of the Forensic Leave Panel and the Disciplinary Appeals Board. She was previously a long-term member of both the Mental Health Tribunal (Victoria) and the Intellectual Disability Review Panel.