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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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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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Academy Fellows Professor Frances Separovic and Professor Mary Garson smiling

Australia represented at international science gathering in China

An Academy delegation attended the Beijing Science Dialogue and International Science Council Midterm Meeting.

Professor Akshay Rao

Leading experimental physicist to visit Sydney

Professor Akshay Rao of the University of Cambridge in the UK has been awarded the 2026 Geoffrey Frew Fellowship.

A person's gloved hands cradle a very cute platypus

Research round-up: Return of the platypuses

Also in this edition: don’t judge a sperm by its looks, and rainbowfish at risk.

A server room with blue circuit graphic overlaid and the letters AI

Data centres alone won’t make Australia an AI nation

The Academy is proposing a 2.5% levy on data centre operators, to ensure the AI boom pays off for Australians.

A collage of three images. Two smaller squares on the left show old photos and drawings of people on the ice. The main image shows two men looking at a framed Union Jack flag and photograph, resting on a table.

Flag from 1908 Mawson trek delights Antarctic expeditioners

The Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition (ANARE) Club celebrated 75 years of exploration at the Shine Dome.

Dr Dingchen Wen and Professor Brian Schmidt pose for a photo together. Both are smiling and wearing conference lanyards.

From Melbourne to Kyoto: How an early-career researcher is building international collaborations

A Japan Society for the Promotion of Science Postdoctoral Fellowship catalysed Dr Dingchen Wen’s research career.

A close-up of a hand-drawn geological map on a piece of yellowing paper

Historical geology material recently acquired at the Fenner Archives

Field books reveal how pioneering geologist Professor David Green carried out his work in Papua New Guinea in the 1950s.

Four people sit on chairs on a stage with a blue backdrop in front of an audience

Leaders unite around case for backing Australian science

A candid conversation at the Science at the Shine Dome Gala Dinner reinforced the Restore Science campaign.

The Australian Lindau delegation of young scientists take a group photo in a park with a tower visible on the skyline in the background

Young Australian scientists learn from Nobel Laureates

Nine early-career scientists joined Nobel Prize winners for a week of scientific exchange at the 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting.