The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) has welcomed the $163.4 million funding announcement made by the Federal Minister for the Environment and Water The Hon. Tanya Plibersek MP at its Townsville headquarters this week. (Wednesday, 19 April).
AIMS CEO Dr Paul Hardisty said the extra funding over four years would be transformational and guarantees the agency can deliver world-leading science on tropical oceans into the next decade.
“The funding will be used for our day-to-day operations as well as to enhance our capabilities in cutting edge marine science and technology, helping us to expand our research into priority areas in Australia and the region like blue carbon and remote monitoring of coral reefs,” said Dr Hardisty.
“The funding is a vote of confidence in AIMS to continue our mission to provide the knowledge which will result in the better management, protection and sustainable development of Australia’s tropical oceans.
“With the Great Barrier Reef and coral reefs globally facing enormous pressures driven by increasing temperatures under climate change, this investment in marine science is more important than ever.”
The funding will mean AIMS can upgrade its facilities and provide a more secure outlook for talented staff. It will be in addition to its annual federal funding.
It will support the replacement of the small Research Vessel Apollo, which is approaching the end of its service life. This will improve access to inshore areas of the Great Barrier Reef for AIMS scientists.
“AIMS scientists are among the best in the world,” added Dr Hardisty. “With this funding they will be able to create a major step change with the technology, the artificial intelligence, the robotic systems we need to stay ahead of the pack to be able to monitor and research this country’s vast ocean estate.”
