Dr Maaike Moller is a highly respected forensic physician at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM). In her role, she provides expert medical opinions to assist the court system, particularly in cases involving interpersonal violence, road traffic incidents, and other complex medicolegal matters.
“Our work supports the justice process by offering medical insights for both victims and alleged perpetrators. It’s rewarding to contribute to such an important aspect of society,” Maaike explains.
Her day-to-day responsibilities include advising frontline teams—doctors and nurses conducting examinations across metropolitan and regional Victoria—and offering clinical support for particularly complex cases. She also provides paper-based expert opinions in cases where examinations aren’t feasible, such as historical incidents.
A significant part of her role involves representing VIFM externally, participating in training programs for Victoria Police, hospitals, and new staff. “We’re involved in internal and external training to ensure a consistent and high standard of practice,” she says. “It’s vital to share knowledge and continually improve how we serve the community.”
Maaike’s path to forensic medicine began with her background in obstetrics and gynaecology, with additional expertise in early pregnancy care, sexual health, and family planning. “Clinical Forensic Medicine is a relatively new specialty, and people enter from a range of medical backgrounds. I trained in the UK and found it to be an incredibly meaningful area to work in,” she shares.
‘It’s a privilege to help people during critical moments in their lives and to play a part in ensuring natural justice for all involved’
Challenges of the Role
For Maaike, one of the toughest aspects of her work is operating at the intersection of medicine and the law.
“That intersection is what draws many of us to the field, but it can also create tension,” she shares. “You’re bridging two different systems with their own expectations, cultures, and ways of working, which can be challenging to manage. Thankfully, we have the support of our colleagues and managers to navigate those complexities.”
The work also often involves dealing with profoundly difficult cases.
“We’re usually involved when something traumatic or criminal has occurred,” Maaike reflects. “That can be hard to process because these cases often reveal the worst in human behaviour—sometimes driven by really horrible circumstances or past trauma. Delving into those stories can be incredibly challenging.”
Advice for Aspiring Forensic Physicians
Maaike’s advice to those considering a career in forensic medicine is simple: keep an open mind. “Just consider it. Keep it as an option,” she says. “It’s such a varied and broadly applicable area of medicine, with opportunities to explore different aspects of the field.”
Making a Difference
For Maaike, the most rewarding part of her role is the opportunity to make a tangible difference for individuals and society. “It’s a privilege to help people during critical moments in their lives and to play a part in ensuring natural justice for all involved.”
Outside of her everyday role, Maaike participates in research projects where possible and contributes to the Department of Forensic Medicine. Her dedication to her role, passion for education, and commitment to justice make her an invaluable part of the VIFM team.