Jon Altman

Professional Summary: Professor Jon Altman

Professor Jon Altman is a distinguished academic and researcher affiliated with the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Australia. With a career spanning several decades, he is widely recognized for his expertise in Indigenous economic policy, development, and social justice in Australia. His work has significantly influenced policy debates and academic discourse on Indigenous affairs.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Altman holds advanced degrees in economics and anthropology, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to research. Specific details of his educational background include:

• Bachelor of Arts in Economics, University of Auckland
• Master of Arts in Economics, University of Auckland
• PhD in Anthropology, Australian National University

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Altman’s research focuses on Indigenous policy, economic development, and social equity. His key areas of interest include:

• Indigenous economic policy and hybrid economies
• Land rights and native title issues
• Social justice and community development in remote Indigenous Australia
• Alternative development models and critiques of mainstream economic approaches

Career History and Appointments

Professor Altman has held numerous significant positions throughout his career, primarily at the Australian National University. His notable appointments include:

• Emeritus Professor, School of Regulation and Global Governance (RegNet), Australian National University
• Former Director, Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research (CAEPR), ANU (1990–2010)
• Research Fellow and Senior Fellow, ANU, in various capacities over several decades

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Altman has been recognized for his contributions to Indigenous policy research and advocacy. His accolades include:

• Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia (ASSA)
• Recipient of various research grants and fellowships supporting Indigenous policy studies

Key Publications

Professor Altman has authored and co-authored numerous influential works, including books, journal articles, and policy reports. Some of his key publications are:

• Hunter-Gatherers Today: An Aboriginal Economy in North Australia (1987)
• Aboriginal Employment Equity by the Year 2000 (1991, edited)
• The Aboriginal Economy: Issues and Options (1996, co-authored)
• Coercive Reconciliation: Stabilise, Normalise, Exit Aboriginal Australia (2007, co-edited with Melinda Hinkson)
• Numerous policy papers and articles on hybrid economies and Indigenous development published through CAEPR

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Altman’s work has had a profound impact on the field of Indigenous policy and economic development in Australia. As the founding director of the Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research (CAEPR) at ANU, he played a pivotal role in establishing a leading research hub that informs government policy on Indigenous affairs. His concept of the 'hybrid economy'—which integrates customary, market, and state elements—has reshaped academic and policy discussions on sustainable development for Indigenous communities. His advocacy for social justice and critique of neoliberal approaches to Indigenous policy have made him a respected voice in both academic and public spheres.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Altman has been actively involved in public engagement and academic leadership, including:

• Delivering numerous public lectures and keynote addresses on Indigenous policy and economic development
• Serving on advisory committees and panels related to Indigenous affairs and land rights
• Contributing as an editor and reviewer for academic journals and policy publications focused on Indigenous studies