The Development Studies Network is a multidisciplinary organisation which encourages discussion and widespread exchange of knowledge of global social and economic development issues, development-related research, and international development assistance policy and practice. The Network seeks to enhance cooperation between development studies and development education programmes in universities, colleges, government and non government organisations and the private sector. In particular, it provides an Australian and Pacific focal point for information and outreach on social and economic development research, policy, planning, project implementation and teaching.
The Network responds to numerous national and international requests for information on issues such as human rights, aid delivery, sustainable development, gender and development, governance and public policy, the private sector and information technology. It also provides up-to-date information on publications, conferences, courses of study and Australian-based development expertise. The Network publishes a quarterly journal, Development Bulletin, maintains an electronic forum for news about forthcoming events and discussion of development issues and organises topical conferences and symposia.