The Academy welcomed support for science in the government’s 2016–17 May Budget as an indication of long-term commitment to science in Australia. New measures included an additional $200 million for Antarctic science and $100 million for Geoscience Australia. The Budget also featured extended funding for the Australian Astronomical Observatory, additional support for research infrastructure, and an allocation for the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation.
The Academy has urged all parties to prioritise science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education before the federal election on 2 July.
The Academy emphasised the need for science and innovation to be at the heart of economic and social policy.In its election statement, the Academy emphasised the need for science and innovation to be at the heart of economic and social policy.
A two-day ‘Future Earth’ sustainability workshop in April brought together leading thinkers from Australia and the region to discuss the complex interplay of environmental, economic, cultural and social issues, and examine ways to enable Australia to design a sustainable future.
The Academy is conducting a formal review of Australia's needs and capabilities in the area of climate science.
The Annual Giving Program for 2016 will enable the Academy to continue its strong support for science in Australia.
The Academy’s 2015 new format Annual Report, published in May, features highlights of the Academy's achievements for the period April to December 2015 (due to a transition to calendar year reporting). Fully online for the first time, the Annual Report outlines activities and achievements under five strategic themes: excellence in science, international engagement, scientific literacy, influential voice, and operational excellence. The report also features video introductions by the President and Chief Executive.
Retiring members of the Academy’s Council were honoured and new members appointed at the Australian Academy of Science’s Annual General Meeting in May.
The Chief Executive, Dr Sue Meek AO FTSE, has announced her intention to leave the Academy on 1 July to focus on other professional commitments in the science sector and increase her engagement in some additional interest areas. The Academy’s Council is working to identify a suitable successor.
26 June – 1 July 2016
© 2025 Australian Academy of Science
