Funding from the Australian Government is enabling critical research to continue into one of the most powerful engines of the global climate system - the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.
As dramatic shifts occur in the region - large swathes of sea ice are disappearing and the rate of change is accelerating rapidly - the $5 million Government investment extends for two years the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science (ACEAS), a flagship research partnership within the Australian Antarctic Program. The extension was announced late last year by the Australian Government, with the funding now delivered to ACEAS.
Research will deepen understanding of climate risks emerging form East Antarctica and the Southern Ocean with a focus on the globally significant Denman-Shackleton glacier system, which has the potential to contribute up to 1.5 metres to global mean sea level if fully melted.
University of Tasmania Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black said the future of Antarctica was inextricably tied to the future of the planet, and the lives of all Australians.
"Change in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean has consequences for our weather systems, homes, coastal ecosystems, fisheries, and billions of dollars of infrastructure in every corner and on every edge of Australia and beyond," Professor Black said.
"We welcome this government support, which is helping to bring together national expertise and research focus to deliver new insights and understanding at a critical time in Antarctic science."
Led by the University of Tasmania, ACEAS is a national consortium of seven university partners - including the University of New South Wales, Australian National University, University of Canberra, University of Melbourne, University of Western Australia and Curtin University - working closely with the Australian Antarctic Division.
The extension will support the analysis, synthesis and modelling of Antarctic datasets, translating major field observations into decision-ready knowledge for policy and planning to strengthen national capability and maximise the value of Australia's recent Antarctic science investments.
New leadership for ACEAS
Professor Jo Whittaker, from the University of Tasmania, has been appointed the new ACEAS Director to lead the Centre over the next two years.
"I feel deeply honoured to take on this role at a critical juncture for Antarctica's future and our understanding of climate risk," Professor Whittaker said.
Professor Whittaker is an ACEAS Chief Investigator, ARC Future Fellow and internationally recognised expert in plate tectonics, marine geophysics and geodynamics based at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies.
She has held senior leadership roles at the University and brings deep knowledge of ACEAS's research portfolio and partnerships.
University of Tasmania Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Nicole Webster, said ACEAS exemplified the power of collaboration, connecting institutions, disciplines and research to address some of the most complex and pressing climate questions.
"We are very pleased to have someone of Professor Whittaker's calibre lead ACEAS over the next two years, and we thank Professor Matt King for his strong leadership and dedication over the past five years."
Outgoing ACEAS Director Professor Matt King, from the University of Tasmania, has led the organisation since its inception in 2021 and will now focus on his Australian Research Council Laureate Fellowship , which aims to determine the long-term contribution of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet to sea-level rise.
Cover image: The Denman Glacier in East Antarctica has the potential to contribute up to 1.5 metres of global sea level rise if fully melted. Credit: Pete Harmsen | AAD
