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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‘Ambitious Australia’ report: There is not a moment to waste

The Academy strongly supports recommendations from the Strategic Examination of Research and Development to stop the long-term decline in research funding and to craft an R&D system that supports scale and focus. Without this, Australia will fall behind.
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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.

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Three Australians elected to the world’s oldest scientific academy

Three Academy Fellows have been recognised by the Royal Society for their outstanding contributions to scientific research and discovery.

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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.

A collage of the Academy's cohort of new members for 2026

Academy honours Australia's eminent scientists

The Academy has elected 28 new members for 2026, recognising outstanding contributions from ancient dinosaur discoveries to next-generation electronics.

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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.

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Budget signals support for ambitious reform for Australian science

The Academy welcomes 2026–27 Budget measures that back key recommendations of the Strategic Examination of Research and Development.

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Academy backs early-career researchers protecting Australia's wildlife

Two early-career scientists researching a deadly frog fungus and an invasive backyard skink have won the Max Day Environmental Science Fellowship Award.

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International grants supercharging Australian research collaborations

Australian researchers tackling big challenges have received a total of $6.2 million in grants to deepen partnerships with international collaborators across priority technology areas.

Melissa Abberton

Academy Council appoints inaugural Executive Director

The Council of the Australian Academy of Science is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Melissa Abberton as the inaugural Executive Director.