Australian Archaeological Association


The Australian Archaeological Association is an archaeological organisation in Australia. Membership is open to anyone interested in furthering archaeology in Australia.
Sometimes referred to by the nickname Triple A, the association was founded in 1973 at a meeting held during the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science Congress in Perth, Western Australia, following earlier discussions during the 1972 Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies General Meeting, and the ANZAAS Congress held in Sydney later that year.
The association's aim is to further archaeology in Australia with the stated purpose:

Journal and annual conference

The association has published the journal Australian Archaeology since 1974. It was originally published as a newsletter for the association and gradually became a peer-reviewed academic journal. It is currently published by Taylor & Francis.
AAA hosts an annual conference for its members that rotates around Australian cities. During the annual conference four major awards are generally bestowed:
  • Rhys Jones Medal for Outstanding Contribution to Australian Archaeology
  • Life Membership for Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Archaeological Association
  • Bruce Veitch Award for Excellence in Indigenous Engagement
  • John Mulvaney Book Award

    National Archaeology Week

The AAA supports the "National Archaeology Week", which is an annual week long series of events that aims to increase public awareness of Australian archaeology and the work of Australian archaeologists both at home and abroad, and to promote the importance of protecting Australia's unique archaeological heritage. Beginning on the third Sunday in May every year, the program of events and activities includes public lectures, seminars, exhibits, demonstration excavations and displays.