The Rapid Research Information Forum (RRIF) is a forum for rapid information sharing and collaboration within the Australian research and innovation sector. It is convened by Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley AO FAA FTSE, and its operations are led by the Australian Academy of Science.
RRIF provides a mechanism to rapidly bring together relevant multidisciplinary research expertise to address pressing questions about Australia’s response to COVID-19, as they emerge.
RRIF enables timely responses to be provided to governments based on the best available evidence. RRIF also informs the Chief Scientist’s interactions and collaboration with other national chief scientific advisers. It demonstrates the critical value of research and innovation in driving societal as well as economic progress now and into the future.
These reports have been enabled through the contribution of RRIF participants and with support from the philanthropic organisation Minderoo Foundation and other Australian philanthropists.
To help people understand the changing situation and make decisions, the Australian Academy of Science is producing articles and videos based on the latest available knowledge. It is important that directives from the Department of Health and other jurisdictions such as state and territory governments are followed.
The COVID-19 Expert Database is a collaboration between Australia’s leading learned academies and is championed by Australia’s Chief Scientist. It provides a searchable database of experts to help governments, the business sector, the research sector and other decision-makers to easily access the expertise they need across many fields.
The impact of COVID-19 on Australian schools and schooling is significant. The Academy is offering support, advice and resources to systems, schools and teachers currently delivering alternative methods of education. Our Australian Curriculum linked Foundation to Year 10 science and mathematics education programs are available online and remain free of charge.
The Science for Australians series of feature articles highlights how science benefits all Australians and how it can be used to inform policy that makes science thrive in Australia, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Academy’s EMCR Forum is keeping the EMCR community connected during COVID-19. It is offering a series of online opportunities to address the needs of EMCRs in Australia and support their careers.
© 2021 Australian Academy of Science
