Australian Antarctic Division

The Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) is a division of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. The Division undertakes science programs and research projects to contribute to an understanding of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It conducts and supports collaborative research programs with other Australian and international organisations, such as the Bureau of Meteorology and Geoscience Australia, as well as administering and maintaining a presence in Australian Antarctic and sub-Antarctic territories. Their website includes articles on the Antarctic wildlife, threats, guidelines and they have blogs written by Australians at the three Australian bases in Antarctica: Mawson, Davis and Casey. Charter Under its charter the Australian Antarctic Division: Administers the Australian Antarctic Territory and the Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands Conducts research in high priority areas of Antarctic science Coordinates and manages Australia's logistic program in Antarctica Promotes Antarctic research in universities through grants and the provision of logistic support Develops policy proposals and provides advice on Australia's Antarctic interests Promotes Australia's Antarctic interests within the Antarctic Treaty System Maintains a continuing presence in the region through permanent stations, the establishment of field bases and the provision of transport, communication and medical services Acts as the primary source of Australian Antarctic information Australian Antarctic program The Australian Antarctic Division leads the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) with four key goals: Maintain the Antarctic Treaty System and enhance Australia's influence in it Protect the Antarctic environment Understand the role of Antarctica in the global climate system Undertake scientific work of practical, economic and national significance