How to run an event
Social Sciences Week is built from events hosted by organisations across Australia, and no two events look the same. Events don’t need to be large or complex to be part of Social Sciences Week, and there are no restrictions on topics, venues or formats. But we do want to see events which promote social science research in ways that are thoughtful, accessible and relevant.
This page provides guidance to help you design an engaging event that connects social science research with public audiences.
What kinds of events can be part of Social Sciences Week?
Social Sciences Week welcomes a wide range of public‑facing events, including lectures, panel discussions, workshops, school‑based activities, exhibitions, film screenings, debates, book launches, community conversations and other creative formats. Events may be held in person, online or in hybrid, and can take place in universities, schools, libraries, cultural venues, community spaces or online. Events can be free or paid.
You can view some examples of previous events on SSW On Demand.
We particularly encourage formats that invite participation, and which help make social science research accessible to audiences beyond academic settings.
What support does Social Sciences Week provide?
When you register an event as part of Social Sciences Week, it becomes part of the official national program. Registered events are promoted through Social Sciences Week channels and clearly identified as part of the national initiative. Being part of the official program increases an event’s visibility, including to media outlets that engage with Social Sciences Week.
In addition, Spark Grants will again be available in 2026 to support engaging public events.
Accessibility and inclusion
Social Sciences Week aims to engage broad and diverse audiences. We encourage organisers to consider accessibility when designing events, whether through clear language, accessible venues, captioning for online events or inclusive facilitation. Even small steps can make events more welcoming and extend their impact.
Can schools take part in Social Sciences Week?
Yes, schools are encouraged to take part in Social Sciences Week. There are many ways schools can get involved. This might include attending Social Sciences Week events, using Seriously Social webinars and podcasts as part of classroom activities, hosting a debate, or highlighting social science ideas and careers within lessons or school spaces. Schools may also choose to host and register their own Social Sciences Week events — for students, school communities or wider audiences — contributing directly to the national program alongside organisations across Australia.
If you’re unsure whether your event idea is suitable, or if you have questions about the registration process, please get in touch at info@socialsciences.org.au. Social Sciences Week is shaped by its organisers, and we’re happy to help you be part of the program.
Host an event
Social Sciences Week welcomes events of all sizes — from public lectures and workshops to school activities, exhibitions, film screenings, trivia nights and community conversations. Our national program is built from events hosted by teachers, researchers, universities, schools and organisations across Australia, each bringing social science to life in their own community.
Event registrations for SSW2026 open in May 2026. Organisers will be able to submit their event details for inclusion in the official national program. Registered events will appear on the program and gain access to promotional support. Spark Grants will again be available to help deliver engaging public events, so we encourage hosts to plan their ideas now and be ready to register when submissions open.