The executive of this society expresses its grave concern over political interference in the awarding of ARC grants. In Senate Estimates on 25 October it was revealed that more than $AU4 million were denied to Humanities projects in 2017 and 2018.
The minister’s response was poor, indicating that he does not understand the importance of independent humanities research and of the peer review process; his response implied that research should be funded on the basis of its popularity with the public.
This action harms the international reputation of the Australian university sector and risks collaborations between Australian and international researchers.
On behalf of the society we affirm our support for the long standing traditions of academic freedom and critical inquiry inherent in both our disciplines.
Links to an article co-authored by an ANZLHS member, to media releases from the Australian Academy of Humanities and Council of Australian Law Deans are available on our news page where a copy of a statement by the Australian Historical Association has also been shared.
Australian and New Zealand Law and History Society 