Workshops Program

The Academy’s Workshop Program was established in 1989. It aims to facilitate multidisciplinary discussions to advance contemporary research and policy issues within the social sciences.

“Their purpose is not to educate the public or general body of Fellows but to bring together small groups of expert and highly motivated scholars to consider and foster the development of research in a particular area of great importance to society.” – Professor Peter Karmel AC, Academy President 1987 – 90

The Program’s purpose is to foster innovative ideas, identify areas for further research and demonstrate the practical utility of the social sciences by translating research into policy and practice.

Over the past 30 years the Academy is pleased to have been the catalyst for over 180 workshops involving thousands of leading experts across Australia.

It continues to be an exciting and integral means of delivering on the Academy’s goal to recognise and champion excellence in the social sciences. The Workshop Program also provides valuable opportunities to generate networks and engage young researchers in the Academy’s activities.

Workshop Funding Applications

The Academy supports up to eight workshops each year with funding to a maximum of $9,000 (excl GST). Applicants are encouraged to seek matched or additional funding from universities or other parties and the Academy welcomes co-badging of workshops.

The workshops usually run for two-days and involve around 20 invited experts. These are mostly from the research sector, but also–where relevant–experts come from government, the community sector or industry.

Applications must involve at least one Academy Fellow as part of an organising committee and at least two early to mid-career researchers. Applications aligned to the Academy’s Strategic Plan 2019-2022 and policy priorities are considered favourably.