Response to 20 Year Australian Antarctic Strategy Plan …

Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre

The CEO of the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre, Professor Tony Worby, today welcomed the release of the Federal Government’s 20 Year Australian Antarctic Strategy Plan.

Professor Worby said Australia’s responsibilities in the Antarctic were highly significant and that a long term, strategic approach to funding was critical.

“The Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems CRC welcomes this report by Dr Tony Press, and the emphasis it places on Australia’s role as a global leader in Antarctic science,” said Professor Worby.

“The report presents a comprehensive roadmap for Australia’s presence in the Antarctic for the next two decades and clearly acknowledges the importance of science in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.”

“Having a long-term plan for Australia’s presence in the Antarctic is essential, and the release of this report is a strong demonstration of the Government’s commitment to Antarctic leadership.”

“We welcome the Minister’s strong acknowledgement of the funding challenges facing the sector in recent years.”

“Australia can be proud of its record as a global leader in Antarctic science, but the sector is facing some significant challenges, including the high cost of logistics and marine science in the Antarctic.”

“Australia has a major stake in the Antarctic, and it is crucial that our research program is commensurate with our responsibilities for understanding and protecting the Antarctic environment.”

“As we look to an uncertain future, there are many important science questions for Australia in the Antarctic and Southern Ocean regions.”

“Our scientists today are working to understand why the Southern Ocean is becoming warmer, fresher and more acidic, and what implications this will have for Antarctic ice shelves, sea level and the world’s climate and ecosystems .”

“The ACE CRC looks forward to examining the report in greater detail and to the government’s response over the coming months.
David Reilly, Public Affairs Manager, Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre (ACE CRC)