Social Science Research Infrastructure Network

The Challenge

The social sciences play a critical role in understanding and addressing societal challenges, from inequality and social justice to public health and environmental sustainability. However, the effectiveness of social science research in Australia is currently hampered by significant gaps in research infrastructure.

Despite the vital contributions of social science research, Australian researchers face numerous barriers, including inadequate data access, insufficient training in advanced methodologies, and fragmented research networks. Addressing these issues is essential to empowering researchers to generate impactful insights and solutions.

The recently released Decadal Plan for Social Science Research Infrastructure 2024-33 by the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia outlines a vision for transforming Australia’s social science research infrastructure over the coming decade. The plan aims to effectively support researchers working at the forefront of their fields and equip the social sciences to address Australia’s most pressing and evolving societal challenges.

The Response

Building on the directions outlined in the Decadal Plan, and on the outcomes of a public consultation and co-design process, the Social Sciences Research Infrastructure Network (SSRIN) aims to respond to the most pressing research infrastructure needs facing the social sciences in Australia.

Specifically, the project aims to:

• improve discoverability, accessibility and usability of social science data
• enhance existing data infrastructure relevant for the social sciences
• build capacity among social science researchers in Australia
• improve engagement and build collaborations between key stakeholders in universities, government, NGOs and communities.

Who Will Benefit

The project will benefit:

• academic researchers
• researchers/analysts working in government agencies
• data custodians and data holders
• policy makers

The Partners

• Institute for Social Science Research at The University of Queensland (project lead)
• ARDC
• Australian Bureau of Statistics
• Australian National University
• National Centre for Healthy Ageing at Monash University
• The Centre for Child Health Research at the University of Western Australia
• ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course (Life Course Centre)

Target Outcomes

Enhancing the research infrastructure for social sciences in Australia is crucial for addressing complex societal challenges. By focusing on data discoverability, accessibility and integration, capacity building and training, engagement and collaboration, SSRIN is building a robust foundation that will enable Australian social scientists to contribute effectively to building a more equitable and resilient society. Through strategic investments and coordinated efforts, Australia can empower its social scientists to drive innovation and create evidence that enables positive social change.

Expected outcomes of the project include:

• better access to key data infrastructure for social science researchers in Australia
• improved capacity and skills across the social science community to capitalise on existing and emerging technical and methodological capabilities
• enhanced collaboration between social science university researchers, government agencies, not-for-profit sector and communities.

Key Resources

• View the project plan
• View the predecessor project to SSRIN, Enhancing Metadata for Inclusive Research on Entrenched Disadvantage.