A steep decline in its scientific research is undermining the country’s 43% title and status under the Antarctic Treaty

This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

Australia's territorial claim to Antarctica is being weakened by a decline in its scientific research, scientists warn.



Australia claims 43% of the southernmost continent based on geographic proximity, history of exploration and discovery and activity in Antarctica.

But its participation as a key consultative party under the Antarctic Treaty depends on demonstrating a substantial scientific program – and the number of science projects has dropped from 142 in 1997 to only 62 in 2014, the Australian Academy of Science says.

In its submission to the 20-year Australian Antarctic Strategic Plan, the academy laments a chronic under-funding of research.

“As science is currency in Antarctica, Australia's declining research impacts on the strength of Australia's claim over the Australian Antarctic territory," the submission says.

It warned that Australia's research agenda was falling behind other countries such as China, Russia and India.

The academy has called for flexible funding to promote national and international collaboration on projects.

Basic infrastructure and transport was ageing and insufficient funding was limiting both land and marine-based science.

The resupply flagship, Aurora Australis, has reached the end of its effective lifespan and a new icebreaker is desperately needed, it says. There are also constraints on helicopter capacity because of accidents and heavy sea ice.

Extra accommodation is also needed for scientists at stations and on Macquarie Island.

The submission echoes that of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering, which last month said that Australia has a strong geopolitical interest in ensuring Antarctica is used for peaceful purposes and that it is imperative to be well-informed on the activities of other countries in this region.

The federal government is due to complete the strategic plan by mid-2014.