This year, the Learned Academies have continued to come together through ACOLA to deliver unique value to government, industry, and society. With access to over 3,000 Fellows, representing some of Australia’s leading minds. We continue to provide independent, trusted, and evidence-based policy advice and solutions to complex global problems and emerging national needs.
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE
Chair, Board of Directors
ACOLA
Chair’s Report
It is with great pleasure that I present the Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA) Annual Report for 2023–2024.
As in previous years, ACOLA and the Learned Academies have worked together to deliver trusted, independent advice to governments and society. In an era marked by increasing disinformation and mistrust, ACOLA’s ability to convene the leading minds of Australian science and research to provide evidence-based, multidisciplinary insights has never been more crucial. Through the expertise of its members, ACOLA continues to inform and shape complex policy initiatives with integrity and rigor.
A key research project for the year was ACOLA’s report, Research Assessment in Australia: Evidence for Modernisation, prepared for the Office of the Chief Scientist. This report examined the nature and impacts—both positive and negative—of research assessment, offering recommendations to enhance research management, output, and partnerships with industry. It highlighted variations in research practices across disciplines and institutions and underscored the need for refined assessment processes to accurately measure impact and research excellence.
Building on the momentum of this critical work, ACOLA successfully expanded its project portfolio and strengthened its relationships with key stakeholders including the Australian Public Service Commission, the Australian Parliament Library, and several government departments to address other pressing challenges.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
Expanding the project portfolio: ACOLA delivered diverse projects and masterclasses addressing critical global challenges facing Australia, with insights into areas such as human rights by design, health, and energy transitions.
Enhancing parliamentary engagement: ACOLA collaborated with the Australian Parliament House (APH) Library to deliver eight virtual parliamentary briefing sessions on key issues for ministers, parliamentarians, and their offices.
Deepening Southeast Asian partnerships: ACOLA served as Australia’s delivery partner for the DFAT-funded KONEKSI program in Indonesia, contributing to the mapping of knowledge landscapes and strengthening regional collaboration.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to ACOLA’s CEO, Ryan Winn, whose exceptional leadership and strategic vision have driven the organisation’s growth over recent years. As Ryan concluded his tenure in April 2024. I also wish to acknowledge Tina Parolin, who stepped into the role of Interim CEO, and the senior leadership and policy team for their support during this transition as we searched for a new leader.
Finally, I express my sincere gratitude to the Fellows and staff from across the Learned Academies for their dedication and contributions to expert groups and project activities. Their commitment to ACOLA’s mission is vital in delivering high-quality advice and support to Australia’s Chief Scientist, Member Academies, the Department of Education, and other government agencies.
Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE
Chair, Board of Directors
ACOLA
