How our research illuminates contemporary society
Deakin’s Centre for Contemporary Histories investigates and translates the unresolved aspects of historical research into actionable insights that shape contemporary society. Our research spans Australia’s Indigenous past, cultural evolution and global contemporary history dynamics. Through these efforts, we address current societal challenges and contribute to meaningful change.
Our research pillars
We tackle historical and societal issues through three core research pillars, providing insights that enhance our understanding of how the past shapes the present. These pillars offer a focused approach to addressing modern challenges.
Democracy and history
Our research examines the erosion of democratic values and aims to improve historical literacy. We seek to understand how events in contemporary history shape current civic and political landscapes, helping to inform public discourse in contemporary society.
Security and development
We explore how concepts of security and development have evolved throughout Australia’s history. Our research investigates their impact and interpretation at different historical periods to provide insights into their relevance today.
Contribute to meaningful historical insights
Get involved with our research on contemporary histories. Connect with our researchers, learn more about our projects or discuss partnership opportunities.
Bringing Geelong's sporting past to life
As part of Deakin’s mission to connect with our communities, we're partnering with the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust to help create the Geelong Sports Museum. Our researchers are delving into the Geelong region's rich sporting history, uncovering forgotten aspects and securing historical artifacts for public display.
Our researchers
The Centre for Contemporary Histories brings together a dynamic team of over 50 researchers investigating diverse topics such as Australia’s Indigenous history, cultural transmission, religious change and the political uses of history.
Cassandra Atherton is the co-director of the Centre for Contemporary Histories. Her research focuses on prose poetry, particularly the role of poets as public intellectuals and hibakusha poets. Cassandra is an award-winning author and editor, with over 30 published works and numerous grants supporting her research on atomic bomb poetry and poetic biographies of the elderly.
David Lowe is the co-director of the Centre for Contemporary Histories. He is a historian specialising in modern international relations and Australia’s role in world affairs. David’s work focuses on the historical dimensions of contemporary policy issues and he is the co-founder of the Australian Policy and History Network, which encourages historians to inform current policy debates.
Featured projects
Our researchers at the Centre for Contemporary Histories are engaged in groundbreaking projects that examine how historical narratives influence contemporary issues and public perceptions.
Understanding medievalism’s modern impact
This project explores how medieval narratives continue to shape contemporary identities and ideologies. By examining how extremists use these narratives in popular culture, we develop strategies to counteract such propaganda and foster political tolerance.
Tracing the evolution of Australian national security
This project traces the historical development of national security in Australia from 1901 to 2021, focusing on its implications for modern policy and public discourse. Our aim is to bridge gaps between national security experts and the wider Australian community, fostering a deeper understanding of this crucial issue.
Contact us
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re interested in our research, want to collaborate or wish to stay updated on the latest developments, get in touch.
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