Dive into Social Sciences Week 2024

As the principal sponsor of Social Sciences Week 2024, RMIT is hosting a range of thought-provoking events from 9-15 September.

Now in its seventh year, Social Sciences Week is an initiative of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia designed to foster a deeper understanding of social sciences and their importance to society through an exciting series of in-person, online, and hybrid events.

Social Change Enabling Impact Platform Director, Professor Lisa Given, said RMIT is a leading university in applied research committed to improving people’s lives and acting sustainably.

“The social sciences are needed now more than ever to help humanity restore the planet and address global inequalities,” she said.

“Through RMIT’s innovative and insightful research, working alongside community, government, and business, we strive to better understand human behaviour, societal needs, and the complex issues that affect communities globally.”

RMIT’s Social Sciences Week program features innovative work by the University’s leading researchers and critical industry partnerships. These events are open to the public, students and staff.

Here are some RMIT top events that you won’t want to miss!

Enabling impact

Society and Environment

13 August 2024

Power, Privilege and Place in Australian Society

9 September, 12.30pm – 1.30pm AEST

This in-person event will launch the book 'Power, Privilege and Place in Australian Society' by Patrick O'Keeffe. Past tutors from the RMIT undergraduate course 'Australian Society in a Global Context' will discuss their research on gender-based violence, housing insecurity, and multiculturalism.

UNDERCOVER: The Hidden Faces of Homelessness

9 September, 4pm – 6.30pm AEST

Screening of the documentary UNDERCOVER: The Hidden Faces of Homelessness, which highlights the devastating reality of older women’s experiences of homelessness.

Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

10 September, 10.30am – 11.30am AEST, virtual

A panel discussion featuring RMIT academics from various disciplines focusing on promoting and protecting the rights and wellbeing of women. Moderated by Professor Lisa French.

How Organisations Thrive in a Fast-Changing Global Society: Challenges and Opportunities

10 September, 2pm – 3pm AEST, virtual

Insights and strategies from RMIT academics on how organisations can succeed amidst global changes. The panel will explore cultural diversity, sustainability, and global market trends.

The Right to Housing in Australia

10 September, 6pm – 8pm AEST

The Right to Housing in Australia will draw together some of Australia’s leading authorities on housing policy, from a former Supreme Court judge to a TikTok sensation, to discuss options for the future of housing in Australian cities.

A Skilled (Open) Hand and a Cultivated (Open) Mind: Goals, Policies and Case Study of Open Scholarship at RMIT University

11 September, 11.30am – 12pm AEST, virtual

Discussion on Open Scholarship and Open Education Resources at RMIT, including a case study on the edited volume "A Skilled Hand and a Cultivated Mind."

Social Science for Systems Change: Engaging Students as Genuine Participants in School Bushfire Planning

11 September, 11.30am – 12.30pm AEST

Hear about a cutting-edge project led by RMIT's Dr Erica Kuligowski, with special insights from the Upwey High School students who are benefiting from research into their bushfire-prone community.

Still from Priscilla, Queen of the Desert film showing person standing on bus in desert, with long silver fabric costume blowing in the wind.

Celebrating 30 Years of: The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

11 September, 6.30pm – 9pm AEST

Screening of the film "The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" with a panel discussion featuring key contributors to the film, including Oscar-winning designer Tim Chappel, and experts from RMIT.

Australian Content in the Streaming Era Symposium

12 September, 9am – 5pm AEST

A full-day symposium examining the impact of streaming on Australian screen industries and audience habits. Includes panels and discussions with industry creatives and academic experts.

2024 Kummargii Yulendji Symposium

12 September, 9am – 5.30 pm AEST

Focuses on First Nations Knowledges and publications, with keynote presenters and discussions on Indigenising research, libraries, and publishing sectors.

Pursuing PhD Studies to Advance Social Change in Industry

12 September, 1pm – 2pm AEST, virtual

Discussion with RMIT PhD students and graduates on using academic research to drive social change. Includes practical advice on research topics, funding, and career paths.

Extending Higher Education Recognition Programs through a Dedicated Post-Award Reflective Practice Tool

12 September, 10am – 10.30am AEST

Seminar unpacking a research paper that produced a tool to deepen reflective practice of recognition program awardees and support their ongoing professional development.

Storytelling for Climate Action

12 September, 3pm – 4.15 pm AEST

Panel discussion on the role of storytelling in shaping responses to climate change, featuring storytellers and social scientists from RMIT.

The Children’s Sensorium – Coalescing Art and Social Science Perspectives for Children’s Wellbeing

13 September, 11am – 12.30 pm AEST

Panel discussion on interdisciplinary research for children's mental health and wellbeing, featuring the project "The Children’s Sensorium" and including a documentary screening and Q&A session.

Design Thinking in Correctional Settings?

13 September, 3pm – 4.30pm AEST

A seminar unpacking a cross-disciplinary project that employed design thinking to improve offender reception processes at a prison.

More events will be added so keep an eye RMIT’s full listing page.

RMIT the principal sponsor for Social Sciences Week, supported by the Enabling Impact Platforms, College of Design and Social Context, College of Business and Law, and the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies.

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Society and Environment

13 August 2024

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Dive into Social Sciences Week 2024