The academic as activist: managing tension and creating impact

Abstract

Drawing on my involvement as an academic in the campaign that resulted in the introduction of paid parental leave in Australia in 2010, I describe what is involved if academics choose to be activists, the dilemmas which are encountered and the barriers which may be put in their way. I also consider the career tensions academics may experience when participating in the public sphere. My experience in advocating for improving policies relating to women and work shows that while managing the tensions can be difficult, academics may find additional intrinsic reward and make a significant impact if they take an active role in translating their research into public policy. In 2020, the COVID-19 experience highlights, more than ever, the need for academics to provide their expertise in community, work and family research to inform better policy and practice.