Anna Halafoff

Anna Halafoff is an Associate Professor in Sociology at Deakin University, focusing on spirituality, religious diversity, preventing violent extremism, worldviews education, and Buddhism in Australia. She coordinates the Spirituality and Wellbeing Research Network and collaborates with institutions like Monash University and UNESCO Chair of Interreligious and Intercultural Relations.

• CURRENT AFFILIATION: Associate Professor, Deakin University
• FORMER ROLES: Lecturer, Research Fellow, and PhD researcher at Monash University

EDUCATION

• PhD in Sociology (Monash University, 2010)
• Graduate Diploma of Education (University of New England, 2006)
• Master of Letters in Peace Studies (University of New England, 2001)
• Bachelor of Arts (University of Melbourne, 1992)

RESEARCH INTERESTS include spirituality’s role in personal and planetary wellbeing, religious education in secular contexts, and intercultural dialogue. Her recent work analyzes trends like “girl mossing” as alternatives to capitalist productivity culture and explores spirituality’s dual potential for social good and conspiratorial risks.

RECENT ARTICLE TRENDS span interfaith peacebuilding, secular religious education, and Buddhism’s intersection with gender equity. These works emphasize practical applications in Australian schools and global multifaith networks.

ADVISORY ROLES and GRANTS include research supervision, media commentary, and funding from the Australian Research Council for projects like Australian Spirituality: Wellness, Wellbeing and Risk.