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Explore updates on Academy initiatives, scientific developments, and expert perspectives on issues shaping research and policy. Our commentary reflects the Academy’s role in fostering informed discussion and sharing thought leadership that connects science with society.
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Australia's Parliament House in Canberra with the flag flying against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds

‘Ambitious Australia’ report: There is not a moment to waste

The Academy strongly supports recommendations from the Strategic Examination of Research and Development to stop the long-term decline in research funding and to craft an R&D system that supports scale and focus. Without this, Australia will fall behind.
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Anna-Maria Arabia standing under the arches of Shine Dome next to the blue water of the moat. She is smiling.

Anna-Maria Arabia OAM to step down as Chief Executive of the Australian Academy of Science

Over a tenure of almost 10 years, Ms Arabia's leadership strengthened the Academy's reach and impact across public policy, STEM education and global scientific engagement.

From left to right: Professor Louise Baur, President of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences; Professor Kate Darian-Smith, President of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Professor Stephen Garton, President of the Australian Academy of the Humanities and Chair of the Australian Council of Learned Academies; Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Australian Academy of Science; and Dr Cathy Foley, President of ATSE

Learned Academies and ACOLA: Joint response to the Strategic Examination of R&D

In a joint media conference, the Australian Council of Learned Academies and Australia’s five Learned Academies respond to the 'Ambitious Australia' report.

Anna-Maria Arabia

Academy Chief Executive on the 'Ambitious Australia' report

The report provides a clear-eyed assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system – and importantly, it provides a coherent roadmap forward.

Dr Cassandra Sedran-Price and Mr Jacob Birch, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist Award – Celebrating Indigenou scientists

Indigenous scientists recognised for climate resilience research

Two Indigenous researchers are reshaping Australia’s scientific landscape – and strengthening climate resilience in the process.

A hand drawn sketch of a train

Sir Ernest Rutherford: A man of sums and sketches

A well-worn maths booklet owned by the famed physicist provides a glimpse into the working life of a researcher in the early 20th century, complete with surprising doodles.

Front cover of Historical Records of Australian Science

Check out the new Editor’s Choice article in Historical Records of Australian Science

The Academy’s history of science journal turns 60. To celebrate, we want to know your favourite articles.

Cover of the IAP report

Global engagement in action: Academy leadership through the InterAcademy Partnership

Australian representation on the world stage is strengthening international collaboration at the science–policy interface.

Dingo in the wild

Research round-up: Quolls, dingoes and bushfires

In this edition: Indigenous knowledge sheds light on quoll decline, bush-fires have long-term impacts on water quality, and tracing the resurgence of Murchison dingoes

Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC

Message from the President: February 2026

Welcome to our first newsletter of 2026 – there is much to look forward to this year.