Australian scientists working on cutting-edge Antarctic research will receive $50 million from the Morrison Government over the next 10 years.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the Antarctic Science Collaboration Initiative (ASCI) funding will support ongoing Antarctic science, research and innovation.

“Australian scientists are renowned for their world-leading Antarctic research, and this funding will ensure these highly skilled science jobs will be retained in Tasmania for years to come,” Minister Andrews said.

“Over 1,200 people are employed in the Antarctic and climate research sector, bringing in over $180 million into the Tasmanian economy each year.

“The Australian Antarctic Program Partnership will use the funding to deliver a work research program over 10 years, helping to understand the role of the Antarctic region in the global climate system and implications on marine ecosystems.”

The ASCI is a new grant program that will provide $5 million per year over a decade for Australia’s Antarctic research program, starting from July 2019.

The Coalition recognises the value of our science, research and technology sectors in growing the economy and creating jobs, that’s why we’ve invested $1.5 billion more into our science agencies than Labor did when it was last in government.

It’s part of our rational and strategic plan to grow the economy and to help create 1.25 million new jobs in the next five years.

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070