Power of the humanities

Explore stories about the social benefits and impact of the Humanities and the remarkable outcomes that can be achieved when humanities researchers collaborate on national and global challenges. Visit our Newsroom to explore stories about our people, community and research.

Musicologist Professor Sarah Collins FAHA from the University of Western Australia has become just the second Australian to win the prestigious Dent Medal, in the history of the prize. She joins the Academy to chat about the significance of the achievement, her scholarship and the field of musicology.

As National Reconciliation Week draws to a close, we highlight ten exemplary books written by Australian Academy of the Humanities Fellows — from award-winning fiction to non-fiction — all which help shape our national discourse.

The Met Gala has become one of the most well-known fashion events of the year. Distinguished Professor Peter McNeil FAHA explores how the annual Met Gala has transformed the status of collecting and exhibiting clothing through linking power, money, status and glamour.

When Emeritus Professor Linda Barwick AM FAHA found an old song written down by a late family friend who served in WWII, she penned the melody as best she could remember some 42 years later. What came next was a deep exploration of the way memory and interpretation can entangle within our archives.

Australia’s oldest pottery find on Jiigurru (Lizard Island) on the Great Barrier Reef rewrites our understanding of Aboriginal maritime history and affirms the stories of Traditional Owners. Distinguished Professor Sean Ulm FAHA, Dingaal man Kenneth McLean and Dr Ariana Lambrides share the long-reaching impact of their co-designed research.

In 2016, Professor David McInnis FAHA FRHistS received the Max Crawford Medal, Australia’s most prestigious award for achievement and promise in the Humanities. Now a Fellow of the Academy, David reflects on the importance of the Medal, and his career since.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Australian Academy of the Humanities recognises Australia’s First Nations Peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of this land, and their continuous connection to country, community and culture.