Effective marine management relies on robust science being translated into actionable policy and decision‑making. While Australia has a strong marine science capability, ensuring that evidence consistently informs policy and delivers real‑world outcomes remains a challenge. This panel discussion will explore how marine science has shaped decisions and driven impact across diverse contexts, including fisheries, species conservation and recovery, restoration, marine parks, emergency response, and emerging sectors such as offshore renewable energy.
Bringing together senior representatives from science, policy and community, the panel will examine practical examples where collaboration between researchers and decision makers has resulted in measurable outcomes. Panellists will reflect on how scientific evidence has been co‑developed, communicated and applied within policy frameworks and management strategies, and the conditions that enable research to move from knowledge generation to implementation.
The discussion will consider common challenges at the science–policy interface, including differing timeframes, uncertainty and competing priorities, alongside innovative tools, processes and partnership models that have supported more effective translation of science into policy. Lessons learned will be shared, highlighting what has worked, what has not, and why.
By sharing experiences and insights, this panel aims to foster dialogue on strengthening partnerships and enhancing the role of marine science in delivering effective, evidence‑based and impactful marine management.