As we approach year’s end, I wish to take an opportunity to first and foremost thank all those who have worked hard this year to advance science in Australia in so many different ways.
The month of December has not seen the efforts ease. Just last week we saw the culmination of four years of sustained effort to ensure scientific evidence was properly considered in our courts in relation to the convictions of Kathleen Folbigg.
In June, Ms Folbigg was pardoned and now her convictions have been quashed. This case has been an important demonstration case about how the science and justice systems can work more effectively together.
Next year we will engage with Attorneys General across Australia to seek reform. You can read more in this month’s newsletter about the Academy’s work at the science-law interface.
We convened experts to discuss how Australia can best support Australia’s nuclear science ambitions. A strong nuclear science sector is essential for medical research, to meet our space ambitions, and to strengthen national security. The roundtable determined the need for a national strategy to increase Australia’s nuclear science capabilities.
We also celebrated the 75-year anniversary of the Australian Journals of Scientific Research. The partnership between the Australian National Search Council and what was then the CSIR began in 1948, and what began as two journals has grown to 14 titles, publishing more than 70,000 articles.
We continue to thoroughly value our current partnership with CSIRO to continue publishing the work of Australian scientists.
In 2024, the Academy turns 70 and the Shine Dome turns 65. We have a rich program of activities throughout the year to celebrate the occasion.
Please mark the key dates in your calendar and join us in the festivities.
I hope you enjoy a restful break over the Christmas and New Year period.
Why not take some recommendations from our Fellows of their favourite books, podcasts and TV shows to enjoy?
I wish you a safe and joyful holiday season.
Best wishes from me and everyone at the Academy.
Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC PresAA FREng FTSE
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science
