The federal government has announced a major funding injection of $208.8 million for Australia’s Antarctic Program, with Tasmania set to benefit from new jobs and research opportunities.
The seven-year investment, beginning from 2025-26, will expand Australia’s polar research capabilities while creating up to 30 new scientific and technical positions at the Antarctic Division headquarters in Tasmania.
Tasmanian Federal MP Julie Collins described the funding as “a huge win for Tasmania”, saying it is something she has “been fighting hard for on behalf of our community”.
“This is something I’ve been fighting hard for on behalf of our community. Our state plays a vital role in Australia’s Antarctic program and this investment secures that future,” Collins said.
“Our state plays a vital role in Australia’s Antarctic program, and this investment secures that future,” she said.
The package includes funding for additional voyages of the RSV Nuyina, one of the world’s most advanced polar icebreaking research vessels, which will enhance Australia’s capacity to study Antarctica and the impacts of climate change on the Southern Ocean.
Aviation capabilities will also receive a boost to provide medical evacuation and search and rescue support for Australian workers in Antarctica.
The Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science will receive increased research funding, alongside a $5 million grant specifically allocated for data analysis from recent Denman Glacier campaigns.
“This funding backs Tasmanian workers, Tasmanian expertise and Tasmanian industry,” Collins said.
“It ensures our state continues to be the heart of Australia’s Antarctic operations.”
“The more we understand Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, the better we can prepare for the impacts of climate change on our environment, our economy and our communities – and Tasmania is at the centre of that work,” Collins said.
