The Academy of the Social Sciences brings together leading cross-disciplinary expertise to inform public policy and strengthen the social science system.
From evaluating how new proposals may impact social science teaching and research, to applying critical social science insights to national and global policy challenges, the Academy provides robust, expert advice founded on the standards of transparency, independence and evidence informed.
We have three streams of work:
Roundtables and forums: convening cross-sector and cross-disciplinary expertise in evidence-based conversations on areas of national priority through policy roundtables, symposiums and other forums.
Submissions and briefings: providing independent targeted written advice to inform decision making during government inquiries and reviews.
Projects and collaborative initiatives: partnering with government, research institutions and other stakeholders to lead landmark initiatives and projects focussed on the health of the social science sector, research infrastructure and discipline decadal plans and other commissioned work.
A Policy Committee, led by Professor Mark Western, provides strategic advice and support for the Academy’s policy work.
The Academy’s Policy Team is based at the National Office in Canberra and are Andrea Verdich, Policy Director, and Dr Honae Cuffe, Policy and Projects Manager.
Andrea Verdich
Andrea Verdich is a seasoned public policy and stakeholder engagement specialist with over 15 years of experience in facilitating cross-sector dialogue and advancing evidence informed policy and practice. Having worked in both private and not-for-profit contexts, including ASX-listed companies, Andrea brings a complementary and practical approach to her Academy work that bridges policy, business and research perspectives. In addition to her Academy role, Andrea volunteers on the Parent Committee of her children’s childcare centre. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Terrestrial Ecology) from University of Queensland.
Dr Honae Cuffe
Dr Honae Cuffe joined the Academy’s National Office in September 2024. Honae has worked across academia, government and the not-for-profit sectors, where she has honed her enthusiasm for and expertise in collaborative projects for evidence-based policy and advice that deliver better outcomes for the Australian public. She holds a PhD in History and has published widely on Australian history, public policy, research pedagogy and bridging the research-practice gap. Honae embraces participatory methodologies in the way she approaches, values and incorporates different knowledge and expertise in research and policy development. She relishes the opportunities that the Academy’s policy work offers to foster trusting, mutually beneficial relationships with Fellows and partners in industry and government.
Get in touch with the Policy Team if you have any questions about the Academy’s policy work or if you have an idea for a project where social science research and expertise can help address complex, cross-cutting policy issues.
