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ARCA has established a series of objectives which guides its consideration of which research projects to facilitate in bringing to fruition. Within that context, ARCA has also established a number of areas of research priority. Here you will find more detail about the objectives and priorities for the ARCA research program.

If you have a research project which you believe ARCA could assist in facilitating a connection with industry and/or government funding, we would be interested to hear from you. On this page, you will find further information on some of the criteria we consider in deciding which projects will receive support from ARCA, as well as the type of information about the project it would be useful for you to provide to ARCA to aid in its decision-making.

Also set out below are some flow charts showing how projects move through the conceptual to dissemination processes of ARCA, as well as generally how ARCA manages its role in respect of a project.
 
 
 
Research objectives
 

ARCA's principal research objective is to facilitate the undertaking and public dissemination of research on actuarial-related issues which is:

  • of the highest quality;

  • independent; and

  • relevant to contemporary policy and business issues.
 
Research priorities
 
ARCA's research priorities are intended to reflect contemporary policy and business issues. As such, they evolve and adapt over time. At present, its research priorities are in the following areas:

  • workers compensation;

  • climate change;

  • population ageing; and

  • health.

Notwithstanding these stated priorities, interested parties are strongly encouraged to contact ARCA about potential research topics outside these areas. Generally, research topics that are more likely to be considered favourably are those where the application of actuarial, and actuarial-related, science can make an important and distinct contribution beyond that already available in the public debate.

As such, in general, priority will be given to topics that add value to public policy debate, discussion and development within the Australian community in areas that are related to the actuarial profession, in the broadest sense. Below are some more detailed considerations given by ARCA to potential research projects.
 
 
Project criteria for ARCA interest
 
Whilst ARCA does not seek to confine too readily potential projects of interest by reference to a narrow set of criteria, the following provides interested parties with an indication of what factors may present a more persuasive argument for ARCA's involvement.
 
Ability to capture institutional support for project

Potential to advance actuarial influence and horizon thinking
   
Easy to identify the likely interested parties

Of significant public interest
   
The parties are expected to be able to find the necessary funds

Strong immediate demand
   
The project is likely to deliver financial or other benefits to the interested parties

Seen as an actuarial issue
   
The project has a 'public good' flavour

Opportunity to be repeated
   
The project is potentially repeatable for others or at a later time

Opportunity for results to generate public commentary and discussion
   
There is a need for actuarial input

Strong desire for independence
   
The parties can assist with conduct of the project (for example, provide access to data, supply individuals who can contribute to the research

Where the outcome would be useful for showcasing the actuarial profession or to enhance multidisciplinary connections
   
 
 
Research guidelines
 
The success of ARCA is very much dependent upon the effective alignment of all parties involved in each ARCA project. These guidelines prescribe a standard format to be used to define a project. Initial versions of a project definition will be developed by the project architects, and will be refined as discussions with potential funders and researchers progresses. The end result will establish the target against which progress can be measured through the project.
 
Standard Format for Project Definition
 
Title A short stand-alone title.
   
Description Several sentences that outline the essence of the project.
   
Background This sets the scene that underlines the need for the project.
   
Scope More specific detail about what is included in scope and, more importantly, what is excluded from the project scope.
   
Possible outcomes Describe the target or what a great result might look like.
   
Likely sponsors Describe the most likely financial supporters of the project and whether they are likely to supply additional non-monetary support.
   
Intended audience Which audiences will be interested in the outcomes of the research?
   
Use of outcomes How will the outcomes of the research be utilised?
   
Research team What skills and experience will be required, and who are the likely research team members or how will they be identified?
   
Actuarial advisers The names of those who will provide the actuarial oversight, or the credentials needed and the method of selection.
   
Project structure Outline the project phases, their likely duration and, if possible, some indication of required budget.
   
 
 
 
Typical project flow
 
Click on the graphic below to view an illustration of the typical flow of a project under ARCA's guidance, from project concept phase to dissemination phase:
 

 
 
 
Typical ARCA project management structure
 
Click on the graphic below to view an illustration of the typical way in which undertakes project management:
 

 
 
 
 
 

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