The Australian Academy of Science affirms its deep respect for the Traditional Owners of all lands across Australia, recognizing their enduring custodianship and the meaningful contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This acknowledgement extends to the lands upon which the Academy operates,as well as the places where its Fellows and staff reside and work.
We formally recognize Australia’s First Nations peoples as the original innovators and scientists of this continent. Their profound and ongoing connection to Country represents a wealth of knowledge, practices, and understandings developed over tens of thousands of years. The Academy is committed to learning from this enduring relationship with the land and incorporating Indigenous perspectives into its scientific endeavors.
This commitment includes honoring the cultural authority of Elders – past, present, and emerging – and acknowledging their vital role in preserving and transmitting traditional knowledge. The Academy strives to foster respectful partnerships with Indigenous communities, supporting initiatives that promote Indigenous-led research and innovation.
Acknowledging Traditional Owners is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a basic step towards reconciliation and a recognition of the invaluable scientific contributions made by Aboriginal and Torres strait Islander peoples. It underscores the importance of inclusive science that values diverse knowledge systems and perspectives.
The Academy actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with Indigenous communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their knowledge is respected in all aspects of its work. This includes promoting Indigenous participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and supporting the preservation of Indigenous languages and cultural heritage.