Australian Anthropological Society
The Australian Anthropological Society makes its home in the city of Canberra. Dedicated to the advancement and development of anthropology as a social science discipline, the organization’s membership is comprised of academicians, researchers, graduate students, and others with an abiding interest in the field.
In the past, anthropology has been associated with the study of small, exotic tribes located in remote regions. While professionals continue our understanding of less familiar human groupsa, the evolution of global society due to increased mobility, anthropologists have turned to the study of the migratory patterns of corporate workers and the culture of the corporate conference room. The organic and fluid nature of human cultures continues to surprise and delight the layman as well as the professional.
For this reason, the AAS’s annual conference, hosted by various Australian universities, is open to anyone interested in the field of anthropology. Admittance is gained by way of registration and payment of the conference fees. The annual conference, usually a two- or three-day event, takes place during the second week of December of each year. In addition to presentations by distinguished speakers from around the globe, the conference also offers an art exhibition and a film festival which take their themes from the thrust of the annual convocation.
Outside of the annual conference, however, the Australian Anthropological Society offers three tiers of membership. Fellows possess a post-graduate education or equivalent from an accredited university, or have conducted lengthy and meaningful research, writing, or other contribution to the field of anthropology. Ordinary Members are those who have completed an honors-level degree in anthropology at an acceptable university or who have conducted research deemed acceptable by the Society. Associate Members lack the requisite academic credentials to qualify for the other two groups but have an interest in anthropology and its advancement.
No matter the level, society membership offers opportunities for networking with professionals in the field, as well as a subscription to The Australian Journal of Anthropology, an email subscription to the Society’s quarterly newsletter, reduced registration fees for the annual conference, and the ability to help shape the future of anthropology in Australia.
