Macquarie Island is an important site for conservation, environmental and climate research projects A research station has operated continuously on the island since 1948.
Due to the extreme weather on the island, many of the buildings are deteriorating and approaching the end of their useful life.
The project will construct a new purpose-built research station on Macquarie Island to allow for a continued year-round presence on the island in support of high priority science and long-term monitoring, including the work of:
- Australian Antarctic Division (AAD)
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA)
- Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
- Geoscience Australia (GA)
- Tasmanian Government.
The Macquarie Island Station Project will provide a safer, more sustainable and operationally resilient station.
Benefits:
The new research station will reduce the risk of WHS incidents and disruptions to station operations and scientific activities, reduce the risk from natural events and the projected impacts of climate change, and minimise station maintenance requirements. In addition to these benefits, the new facilities will enable more efficient operations, provide improved amenity and expeditioner wellbeing, and reduce the station footprint.
Funding:
The Federal Government has committed $371 million over nine years to secure the future of Australia's presence on Macquarie Island.
Current status:
Critical planning and assessments for the project have begun with construction of the new research station planned for completion by 2032.
To support the construction of a new research station, the AAD is undertaking critical sustainment (workplace health and safety) works to allow for the continued safe operation of the existing research station.
This includes refurbishment of accommodation buildings, installing temporary accommodation and relocation of critical infrastructure that will support future research station works.
Environment, Culture & Heritage:
The Macquarie Island Station Project has a responsibility to meet regulatory, statutory and legislative requirements relating to the environmental and cultural heritage management of Macquarie Island, including the following Acts and instruments:
- Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth)
- National Parks and Reserves Management Act 2002 (Tasmania)
- Macquarie Island Nature Reserve and World Heritage Area Management Plan 2006 (Tasmania)
For any queries please email: misp@aad.gov.au