The Australian Institute of Marine Science’s work has never been so important as our marine environment faces the heavy impacts of climate change, the Australian Marine Conservation Society said today after the federal government announced a boost in funding for the struggling research organisation.
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced today that AIMS would get an extra $163.4 million in the May budget over the next four years, on top of its annual federal funding, effectively doubling its budget, which has ranged from $44m to $47m since 2017-18.
AMCS Great Barrier Reef Campaign Manager Lissa Schindler said: “Climate change is having a massive impact on our marine environment, from the tropical north where marine heatwaves cause mass bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef down to our temperate waters where the giant kelp forests of the Great Southern Reef struggling with waters warming 3-4 times the global average. AIMS’s research plays a leading role in the management of our tropical marine environment and marine parks.
“Without AIMS, we would not have such a good knowledge of the condition of the Great Barrier Reef, and what we need to save it. Its ongoing monitoring program within the Great Barrier Reef has been critical in understanding the changes and impacts occurring from climate change, water pollution and fisheries and seeing the benefits of the marine park rezoning.
“It’s pleasing that the Australian Government has recognised the importance of AIMS’s work. It was disturbing to discover that its scientists were having to work in laboratories riddled with mould. AIMS needs to be well funded so it can fulfill its role to provide leading scientific advice on the marine environment to government.”
For interviews or more information contact AMCS media advisor Alex Tibbitts on 0416 420 168
