In November Prof Taylor will become the University's Foundation Chair of Social Justice.

While the position will see her travelling to Perth several times a year, she will continue to live in Ballarat and will work mostly from an office in Melbourne.

"I'm a bit nervous, but I'm excited," Prof Taylor said.

"I feel very humbled to be appointed to such an important role."

She said the position was the first of its kind in Australia.

"I will be looking to produce research leadership in the area of addressing social justice issues in Australia and globally."

She said the university's track record in social justice was a key reason she wanted to take up the role.

In 2004, Prof Taylor set up Children of Phoenix, to promote advocacy, educational opportunities, and research on behalf of victims and survivors of child sexual abuse.

She said the new appointment would help enhance the Ballarat based organisation's national profile.