29 January, 2020

The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia welcomes the new ARC Special Research Initiative for research into Australian culture, history and society, announced on Monday 27 January 2020 by Education Minister the Hon. Dan Tehan MP.

The new initiative will provide $12 million funding over three years for up to 40 projects focused on issues particular to Australia. This will include research on or involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and society.

President of the Academy Professor Jane Hall FASSA FAHMS said that the funding was very welcome.

“Research into Australian society and culture has often been overshadowed by other disciplines – particularly in the STEM fields,” she said.

“This new funding will support researchers who are focused on the nature of Australian society, organisations and culture, and the historical, domestic and international factors that influence it.

“This knowledge and understanding is particularly important given the catastrophic summer we’re living through right now, and the need to help rebuild individuals’ lives, communities and local economies.”

The grants will open for applications in late February, 2020, with projects to commence following peer review and selection processes in October.

“We’re delighted that the Australian Government has prioritised research in the social sciences and humanities with this scheme,” said Professor Hall. “We will look forward to working with the ARC and the Government to ensure that our research disciplines can make best use of this opportunity to contribute to Australian society.