The Australian Theoretical Archaeological Group (AusTAG), exists to foster critical, creative, and inclusive conversations about the role of theory in archaeology. As part of the broader international TAG movement—which includes long-established communities in the UK (1979-), the Nordic Countries (1985-), and the USA (2009-)—AusTAG aims to move beyond data collection and presentation, toward deeper, more meaningful interpretations of the human past.
We believe the future of archaeology lies not simply in producing more data, but in thinking critically about what that data means and how we tell stories about the past. Our vision is to re-centre the interpretive and theoretical dimensions of the discipline, highlighting the diverse social, political, and cultural contexts in which people lived—and in which archaeologists continue to work today.
Theoretical archaeology in Australia has followed a distinctive trajectory. While shaped by global debates, it has been grounded in the specific historical, political, ethical and personal realities of working on unceded Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land and sea Countries. Australian archaeologists have long grappled with issues of colonialism, identity, heritage, and representation—often balancing empirical research with critical self-reflection. AusTAG builds on this legacy by offering a national platform to address how a more explicit theoretical approach can deepen and expand these conversations.
AusTAG is committed to creating egalitarian and inclusive spaces for debate and discussion. We actively support the participation of First Nation scholars as well as graduate students and early career researchers through mentorship, open dialogue, and sponsorship. By encouraging the next generation of theoretically engaged archaeologists, we aim to strengthen the discipline and ensure its continued relevance in today’s world.
Australian Theoretical Archaeology Group 