Australia is an integral part of the global scientific endeavour, contributing significantly to the astronomical community by carrying out a formal strategic planning process on a ten-year timeframe, reviewing its goals and progress at the mid-term mark.
This process is run by the Australian Academy of Science’s National Committee for Astronomy. It provides the opportunity for Australian astronomy to conduct a stock-take of its capabilities, assess its impact both nationally and internationally, provide a vision for the future and set priorities, and develop strategies on how that vision might be implemented.
This process enables us to establish clear priorities and develop robust strategies to achieve our goals.
By engaging in this thoughtful and forward-looking exercise, we aim to strengthen the position of Australian astronomy and ensure its continued contribution to our understanding of the Universe.
The decadal plan not only articulates a strategic vision for Australian astronomy but also sets a roadmap for addressing critical scientific questions and building the necessary infrastructure.
It thoroughly examines educational, training, and career pathways, reinforcing Australia’s research leadership globally. By directly engaging with governmental bodies, industrial, and research partners worldwide, the plan secures essential funding and fosters international collaboration.
The current decadal plan, initiated in 2016 and reviewed in 2020, will conclude in 2025 and will transition into the next decade's plan from 2026 to 2035, aligning with both governmental priorities and scientific advancements.
This future-looking plan aims to enhance the commercialisation of Australian astronomical technologies and encourage participation in global projects, furthering Australia's educational and diversity goals within STEM fields.
The Australian Astronomy Decadal Plan for 2026–35 is progressing, with working group reports forming the foundation of the plan. The editorial board, appointed by the National Committee for Astronomy (NCA), is now actively drafting the document.
Read a detailed overview of the working group context (PDF, 200kb)
Read the working groups’ background white papers and other documents
We gratefully acknowledge the funding from CSIRO and the Australian Academy of Science, which has supported the development of the Astronomy Decadal Plan. This includes funding from a bequest by the late Professor Michael Dopita AM FAA to the Australian Academy of Science.
For more information regarding this project, please contact Swastika Devi, National Committees for Science Officer.
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