The Australian Political Studies Association (APSA) is the peak professional association for political studies in Australia. APSA exists to advance research, education, and scholarly engagement in political studies, and to support the people and institutions that sustain the discipline across the country.

Founded in 1951, APSA was established in recognition of the importance of a professional association to foster intellectual exchange, collegiality, and the growth of political studies in Australia. From its early networks, APSA has developed into a national association representing a diverse and evolving field across political science, international relations, public policy, political methodology, political theory, and teaching and learning in political studies. 

APSA supports the discipline through a range of core activities. These include convening the annual APSA Conference, publishing the Australian Journal of Political Science, supporting workshops and member-led initiatives, recognising scholarly excellence through prizes and awards, and fostering professional networks through caucuses and specialist groups. APSA also engages with matters affecting the discipline and works to strengthen the study and public value of political studies in Australia. 

APSA maintains strong international links, including exchange arrangements with counterpart associations and membership in the International Political Science Association (IPSA), UK Political Studies Association, New Zealand Political Studies Association, Japanese Political Science Association and the Taiwanese Political Science Association, among others. It is also a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. 

Today, APSA continues to serve as a national home for the political studies community: supporting scholarship, strengthening teaching and learning, encouraging professional connection, and promoting the ongoing contribution of political studies to Australian public life. We invite you to explore this website, discover more about APSA’s work and community, and join us in advancing political studies in Australia.

 

Meet APSA's Board of Directors and Affiliated Leads

Find out more about APSA's History

Discover APSA's Specialist Groups and Caucuses

The Political Science Discipline Standards statement can be accessed here

Subscribe to APSA's quarterly online newsletter here (via 'Subscriptions')

Learn more about APSA's annual awards and prizes here