News and views

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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Two scientists at a microscope in a dimly lit lab with the overlaid text 'Back Australia's ability'

Australians back scientists as new national campaign calls for urgent action to stop the brain drain

The Academy's new 'Restore Science' campaign calls for urgent action to restore investment in Australian science, as declining funding risks weakening national capability, driving talent overseas and eroding global competitiveness.
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Australia expands horizons for scientists through association with the world’s largest research program

Association with Horizon Europe unlocks significant funding and partnership opportunities that will boost Australia’s innovation and resilience amid geopolitical uncertainty.

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Supercomputing investment welcomed but long-term certainty for research infrastructure needed

Facilities for climate modelling, coastal monitoring and advanced computing are essential parts of the nation’s decision-making machinery.

A woman wearing a white lab coat, face mask and blue latex gloves working with test tubes, a petri dish and a microscope

Ten-year strategy a promising step for health and medical research

The Academy has welcomed the National Health and Medical Research Strategy as a vital step towards building a thriving Australian research system.

Parliament House in Canberra

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.

Three large telescope buildings under a starry night sky.

As the world looks up, Australia looks away

The Australian Government’s decision to withdraw from its association with the European Southern Observatory (ESO) is short-sighted and risks long-term damage to the country's astronomy capability.

Close up of NSW Premier John T. Lang’s signature

‘The Bearer of this Letter ...’ 

Newly discovered archival letters reveal how early 20th-century Australia deployed its scientists abroad, armed with prime ministerial introductions.

Parliament House, Canberra

Game changer: Australia on track to join world's largest research funding program

Academy welcomes Australia's move to join the world's largest research funding program, in a milestone win for international scientific collaboration.

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.

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.