Social Sciences Week 2026

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The School of Social Sciences is proud to host Social Sciences Week 2026.

Social Sciences Week (14–18 September 2026) is an annual celebration of the diverse disciplines, research and ideas that help us better understand society and address the complex challenges facing our communities. Coordinated by the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia, the week brings together researchers, practitioners, students and the public to explore some of the most important issues of our time.

Join us for a thought-provoking program of events exploring questions such as:

  • What happens when we start talking openly about death, dying and living with uncertainty?
  • How can lived experience, global partnerships and AI transform the future of disaster recovery?
  • Whose voices are heard in climate action, and what can we learn from those on the front lines of change?

Through expert panels, film screenings, community conversations and interactive discussions, Social Sciences Week 2026 showcases the power of social sciences to deepen understanding, challenge assumptions and inspire positive change.

We invite you to join us for a week of insight, discovery and engaging discussion. We hope the program sparks your curiosity, broadens your perspective, and leaves you feeling informed and hopeful about the future.

"Ask a Social Scientist" pocast series:
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Upcoming Events
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Talking About Death: Building Community Conversations About Dying, Grief and Care

4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Break the silence around death and dying through expert discussion and facilitated community conversations.
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Game Studies and The Culture(s) Behind Games

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Discover how games are shaping social science through a keynote and panel with leading Game Studies experts.
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AI In The Public University - A Critical Conversation For HASS

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Explore the social, ethical and democratic implications of corporate AI in universities through an interactive workshop.
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What Can You Do With That Degree? New Evidence from Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities Alumni

15:00 - 17:00
Panel and research showcase exploring alumni career journeys and what they reveal about employability and social impact.
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Voices On The Map: Using AI For Better Disaster Recovery

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Panel discussion exploring the power of lived experience in disaster recovery and how AI will be used to amplify community voices.
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Convo Cafe: The Bubble Tea Social

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Meet new people over bubble tea! Build confidence, practise English and connect through Convo Café in a fun, relaxed setting.
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Climate and Our Communities: A Film and Conversation

2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Watch Climate and Our Communities and join the filmmakers for reflections and discussion on climate action and its community impacts.