BAMOS
Jun 2018
News
A new era for Antarctic Science
Budget news—2018/19 FY
Joint media release, Minister for Jobs and Innovation, the Hon Michaelia Cash, Minister for the Environment and Energy, the Hon
Josh Frydenberg MP and the Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Simon Birmingham MP.
21 June 2018
The Coalition Government is establishing a new Australian
Antarctic Science Council to revitalise science research on a
new platform, as well as boost Hobart’s position as an Antarctic
science hub, and as the premier gateway to Antarctica.
The new Antarctic Science Council will provide further strategic
direction for the Australian Antarctic Program, oversee science
funding priorities and ensure funds directly support Antarctic
research, reducing administrative costs and making it easier to
plan multi-year projects.
Australia has developed world-class Antarctic science
capabilities over many decades, much of which is based in
Hobart. Comprising an independent Chair and representatives
from key Antarctic science agencies, the Council will enhance
Australia’s international reputation for Antarctic science.
The Coalition Government has committed more than $100
million over the next 10 years for Antarctic science, delivered
through two new initiatives:
•
The Antarctic Science Collaboration Initiative with $5
million per year for 10 years from 2019–20, delivered by
the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.
•
The Special Research Initiative in Excellence in Antarctic
Science with $8 million per year for seven years from
January 2020, delivered by the Australian Research
Council.
The establishment of the Council is the first step in implementing
the recommendations of a review into the governance of
Australia’s Antarctic Science Program, undertaken by Mr Drew
Clarke, a highly-respected former senior public servant.
The review was undertaken to ensure Antarctic investments are
effective, joined-up and fit-for-purpose. The Government has
supported, either in full or in principle, all nine recommendations
in the Clarke Review.
This revamp of science funding delivers on the Coalition
Government’s Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action
Plan to increase Antarctic research.
The Clarke Review and the Government’s response can be
found at www.environment.gov.au/antarctic-review.
7