ABOUT DR JULIA RUDOLPH
I am a globally recognised expert in sexual abuse prevention and the creator of the Two Pathways Model — a theory-and-evidence-informed framework that establishes a new direction for preventing abuse through safer spaces and strengthened child wellbeing. With a PhD in sexual abuse prevention and 17 peer-reviewed international publications, I transform cutting-edge research into clear, practical strategies that adults can use in everyday life.
I have worked in child protection in Australia and the UK; spent over a decade in academia researching sexual abuse prevention, violence against children, parenting, bullying, and child/adolescent mental health; and contributed to sexual abuse policy at the federal level. These roles have shown me the profound impact sexual abuse has on children and families — and the urgent need for prevention approaches that empower adults, not children.
As a sought-after speaker, I have delivered over 40 presentations to academic conferences, government departments, advocacy groups, and committees, including invited keynotes.
For decades, prevention efforts have placed the burden on children — expecting them to recognise, react, and report sexual abuse. Yet research consistently shows that true prevention starts with adult action. This is why I founded Protective Pathways: to give parents, caregivers, and professionals the knowledge and tools to create safer environments both online and offline, long before harm occurs.
Dr. Julia Rudolph
Founder, Protective Pathways
Empowering Adults. Protecting Children.
ABOUT PROTECTIVE PATHWAYS
Protective Pathways is an evidence-informed prevention initiative dedicated to helping adults create safer environments for children, both online and offline.
Built on the Two Pathways Model developed by Dr Julia Rudolph, our programs focus on strengthening the spaces around children and supporting their wellbeing — two areas shown by research to be crucial for preventing sexual abuse before it occurs.
We work with parents, child-serving professionals, and practitioners who support families, offering practical training that turns current research into clear, actionable strategies. Our approach goes beyond policies or child-focused messages by equipping adults to recognise grooming, understand early behavioural warning signs, and embed consistent protective practices across homes, organisations, and community settings.
Protective Pathways delivers flexible, accessible training through workshops, presentations, and webinars available face-to-face or online, for groups or individuals. Our mission is simple: to empower adults with the confidence, clarity, and skills needed to create safer spaces where children can thrive, be supported, and remain protected.
OUR VISION
That all children and young people are protected from sexual abuse
OUR OBJECTIVE
To reduce the risk of sexual abuse through the involvement of protective adults and the creation of safe spaces
OUR VALUES
Sexual abuse prevention is NEVER a child’s responsibility.
We prioritise PROACTIVE prevention – stopping abuse before it happens.
PROTECTIVE ADULTS, especially PARENTS, are the key to keeping children safe.
SAFE SPACES reduce the likelihood of sexual abuse occurring.
TOGETHER we can create safe spaces.
