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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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‘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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A starting point, not a solution: The 2026–27 Budget for Australian science

The Academy’s analysis of the 2026–27 Budget highlights first steps to reform Australia’s ailing R&D system, but measures won’t shift the dial on years of underinvestment.

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Budget signals support for ambitious reform for Australian science

The Academy welcomes 2026–27 Budget measures that back key recommendations of the Strategic Examination of Research and Development.

Melissa Abberton

Academy Council appoints inaugural Executive Director

The Council of the Australian Academy of Science is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Melissa Abberton as the inaugural Executive Director.

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.

Season's greetings

Season's greetings from the President

Reflecting on scientific achievements and urgent future challenges, this year saw the Academy call for major reinvestment in research, infrastructure and innovation to meet the challenges ahead.

Parliament House, Canberra

More than 10 years of R&D funding decline cannot be restored in one budget

The Australian Academy of Science welcomes one-off funding of $233 million for CSIRO and $40.8 million for ANSTO in the Government’s mid-year economic and fiscal outlook (MYEFO) as a first step towards supporting focused and sustainable government-funded science agencies.

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Global epilepsy pioneer elected 21st President of the Australian Academy of Science

One of the world’s most respected neurologists whose pioneering work changed the way we think about epilepsy will become the next President of the Australian Academy of Science – Australia’s leading independent voice for science.