Allan has a well-rounded work history having worked as an Archaeologist in both the private and public sectors and likewise has undertaken pure research within archaeological contexts. He has specific interests in prehistoric risk management strategies and processual change within archaeological landscapes. Allan has undertaken numerous projects including the heritage component of environmental impact assessments, cultural heritage management plans, development of Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUA’s) and conservation plans for specific sites of significance as both a provider and as regulator. Most of this is based around Indigenous Cultural Heritage Management.

He has carried out significant archaeological research investigating Aboriginal prehistoric and historic contact sites in South Australia, Victoria and NSW and has had significant experience in the excavation, management and repatriation of incidental discoveries of ancestral remains to their parent communities.