Researching the Social Role of Religions in Australia

The project will develop new knowledge on the social role of Australian religions, the impact of which on current society and public policy has not been comprehensively examined a lack which needs to be critically addressed. Comparative work and studies of many smaller denominations are limited. Social science perspectives from history, sociology and ethnic studies will be adopted, rather than commenting on the validity of specific beliefs. Archival, documentary, oral research and field work will be required. A major additional outcome of the project will be the production of an encyclopaedic work (with publication costs being covered elsewhere). Data will be available from the 2006 Australian Census - uniquely illuminating the research.