Funder took her BA in 1963, and later completed her postgraduate education at the University of Melbourne, receiving an MA in 1983 and a PhD in 1993.
[2] In 1983, Funder joined the Australian Institute of Family Studies as a Principal Research Fellow.
During this time she led and participated in research that determined family wellbeing – including divorce, single parenthood, care of children, and property rights.
Kathleen was an influential voice in public debates and contributed to scholarly journals, mainstream press and government inquiries.
The scholarships provide support for two medical students at the University of Melbourne's Newman College.