Australian influence and leadership in world-class polar science will be enhanced through the direction set out in the Australian Antarctic Science Decadal Strategy 2025-2035

The strategy builds on Australia's long-standing research excellence in Antarctic science, with our world-leading scientific icebreaker, RSV Nuyina, the cornerstone of our operational, logistical and technological capabilities in Antarctica. 

The strategy was developed in close consultation with the Australian Antarctic science community and the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD). It sits under the framework of the Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan which articulates the Australian government’s broader priorities and interests in Antarctica.

An implementation plan to put the strategy into action is being developed by the AAD.

“Antarctica, the Southern Ocean, and indeed the entire globe is in a state of unprecedented and rapid climatic, environmental and geopolitical change," Dr Nick Gales, Chair of the Australian Antarctic Science Council, said. 

“The rate of these changes poses massive challenges to Australia’s economy and way of life.  

“Key advances in Australia’s Antarctic science will improve our predictions of future change and guide our adaptation and responses to these challenges. 

“The strategy sets the scale and ambition of Australia’s Antarctic science for the next decade, guiding our priorities, capabilities and deployment of our world-leading scientific icebreaker, RSV Nuyina.”