FAMILY STUDIES IN AUSTRALIA

As in most countries, the study of families in Australia runs the gamu t from theoretical analyses to applied and evaluative research, Lackin g the strong influence of home economics that is prevalent in American agricultural universities and the strong private philanthropy which f unds much of family research in other societies, Australian family res earch has had strong links with governmental social policies and progr ams, This paper reviews the development of family research and theory in Australia focussing on the most prevalent research topics and polic y priorities.