Welcome to the Department of Economics at The University of Western Australia.

Economics has been part of UWA since the University began teaching in 1913, and a distinct Department of Economics was established in 1931. Over more than a century, the Department has built a proud tradition of teaching, research and engagement with public policy.

Our alumni have gone on to make remarkable contributions in Australia and around the world. They include H.C. “Nugget” Coombs, the first Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia; former Prime Minister Bob Hawke; former Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett; and Boediono, former Vice-President of Indonesia and Governor of Bank Indonesia. Distinguished economists such as Wilfred Salter, Reginald Appleyard and, more recently, Simon Mongey, recipient of the 2026 Frisch Medal, are also part of our intellectual heritage.

Today, our Department brings together a diverse and international community of economists working across a wide range of fields. Our academics conduct research on some of the most important economic and social challenges of our time, publish in leading international journals, contribute to public policy, and collaborate with researchers and institutions around the world.

This research strength directly enriches our teaching. We are committed to providing students with a modern economics education that combines rigorous economic thinking with data, evidence and real-world applications. Our students learn not only how economies work, but also how to analyse complex problems, evaluate policy, work with data and think critically about the choices facing individuals, businesses and governments.

Studying Economics at UWA also means studying in a Department that is deeply connected to Western Australia while looking outward to Australia, Asia and the wider world. Our location gives students a unique opportunity to engage with issues such as resources and energy, trade, labour markets, health, education, inequality, the environment and economic development.

For generations, UWA Economics graduates have built careers in government, central banking, business, consulting, finance, academia and international organisations. We are proud of that legacy, but we are equally focused on preparing the next generation of economists for a rapidly changing world.

Whether you are a prospective student, a parent, an alumnus, a researcher or a member of the wider community, I invite you to explore our programs, meet our people and discover what Economics at UWA has to offer.