In April the Australian Antarctic community celebrated the launch of the Australian Government’s Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan.
The Strategy and Action Plan represents a significant package of measures to build Australia’s role as a leader in Antarctica and to strengthen our influence in the Antarctic Treaty system.
The Strategy sets out Australia’s national Antarctic interests and the Government’s vision for our future engagement in Antarctica. The accompanying Action Plan covers a 20 year period and details the steps the Government will take to fulfil the Strategy.
Key actions include a new icebreaker for research and resupply to replace the ageing Aurora Australis, restoring Antarctic science traverse capability, scoping expanded aviation capability and options for year-round aviation access, increased scientific research and international engagement to support a strong and effective Antarctic Treaty system, and enhancing Hobart as an Antarctic research hub and the premier Gateway to East Antarctica.
The Department of the Environment’s Australian Antarctic Division is responsible for leading, coordinating and delivering the Australian Antarctic program. Together with agencies across Government, the Australian Antarctic Division will implement the Strategy and Action Plan.