The Introductory session is primarily for the participants in the 'Building Australia’s Blue Future: A Marine Science Vision 2025–2035' workshop on the Friday after the conference, but others would be welcome to attend if they want to find out more about the National Marine Science Strategy 2026-2036.
This informal presentation will inform workshop participants about the NMSC Decadal Marine Strategy 2025–2035, outlining key priorities and themes, in preparation for the main workshop. It will brief participants on objectives and targeted outcomes, to inform workshop discussion about translating strategy into practical national marine science action. Attendees will be able to use this knowledge to develop ideas gleaned from other Symposium presentations to contribute to the main workshop.
Indigenous knowledge systems have shaped the stewardship of Australia's marine environments for tens of thousands of years, yet research frameworks have historically failed to reflect the rights, voices, and authority of First Nations peoples in how that knowledge is accessed, used, and governed.
In this presentation, Associate Professor Mandy Downing explores the intersection of Indigenous rights and contemporary research, examining how researchers and institutions can move beyond tokenistic consultation toward genuine, rights-based partnerships. Drawing on the AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research, A/Prof Downing unpacks the practical and philosophical shifts required to embed Indigenous self-determination into research design, data sovereignty, and project management.
From fieldwork protocols to institutional governance, this talk challenges the marine science community to ask not just how we conduct research — but with whom, for whom, and on whose terms. This presentation is essential for researchers, managers, and policymakers committed to ethical, inclusive, and culturally grounded marine science practice and for community members who want a clearer understanding of their rights in Indigenous research.
What does the ocean mean to you? What kinds of emotions does it inspire? Our oceans and coasts are changing. How do we nurture hope while also acknowledging the reality of climate change and other threats to our marine environment? This interactive session invites participants to explore our connection to oceans through art, reflection, and dialogue. Join us for a lunch event with conversation, sharing, and creativity that explores what we hope for the future of our oceans, how we can cultivate hope, and what happens when hope is hard to come by. Participants will have the opportunity to contribute to a collaborative artwork where they can share a wish for oceans, while thinking about all the emotions that their wish might hold. No artistic experience required! We look forward to seeing you there.
Come and witness Unbroken Whispers — The Ripples Connecting Sea-Kin, where old stories, ocean science and whale song meet.
These films carry the ripple voices of Elders, Knowledge Holders, scientists, and Sea Country, revealing relationships and pathways that have been maintained and encapsulates the research. This is more than a screening, it is an invitation to listen, remember and walk forward with Sea-Kin.
This session features a panel discussion on "Marine HAB Science and Management: What have we learnt over the past year?"
This discussion will run from 4:45 PM to 6:00 PM (overtime).
Location: Molly's Bar, Wooden Door, Odgers Lane, Canberra ACT 2601
Please make your own way. This is a 13-minute walk.
For directions, please use this link.
For the first time, AMSA 2026 Student Night will be held in collaboration with the ECOP (Early Career Ocean Professionals) Network.
Student Night is your chance to meet others at the same career stage, exchange ideas, and become part of a growing professional community.