Communiqué Marine National Facility Steering Committee Meeting #102 The 102nd meeting of the CSIRO Marine National Facility Steering Committee was held in Hobart on 14 15 July 2026. Message from Steering Committee Chair – Ms Anne-Marie Lansdown The 102nd meeting of the Marine National Facility (MNF) Steering Committee (the Committee) was held in Hobart while research vessel (RV) Investigator was in port and preparing for a long series of voyages ranging from the east coast of Australia to the Great Barrier Reef, a CAPSTAN voyage to Fiji and a repeat survey line down to the Antarctic ice edge. The meeting welcomed two new members and received a presentation on the recent underwater cultural heritage transit voyage. Strategic outlook and future sustainability The MNF continues to operate in a complex and evolving environment. The Committee recognises the importance of ensuring Australia retains strong sovereign marine research capability and remains committed to supporting the long-term sustainability of the MNF. The Committee welcomed progress on Stream 1 partnerships and supports continued collaboration with government and research partners to maximise national benefit. Looking ahead, the Committee sees a clear need to articulate the value and impact of marine research infrastructure and to ensure investment decisions continue to support Australia's scientific, environmental and economic priorities. Building capability for the future Maintaining world-class research capability remains a priority for the MNF. The Committee welcomes ongoing investments in scientific equipment, laboratory facilities and operational enhancements that continue to improve researchers' experience onboard RV Investigator. The Committee supports the MNF’s strategic approach to future capability development that balances emerging scientific needs, national priorities and long-term value for the research community. Continued collaboration across Australia's marine science infrastructure network will be essential to ensuring capability investments deliver the greatest benefit. Demonstrating impact and value The Committee recognises the importance of demonstrating the value generated through national research infrastructure and noted work underway to better capture and communicate the impact of research enabled by RV Investigator. Improved performance reporting, impact assessment and outcome measurement will help strengthen understanding of the contribution the MNF makes to Australian science, policy development and environmental management. Managing risk in a changing environment Operating in remote and challenging marine environments requires strong risk management and a commitment to continuous improvement. The Committee acknowledged the significant work being undertaken to address emerging risks, including highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1), sea-ice operations and other environmental and operational challenges. The Committee remains confident that the MNF's strong risk management culture and proactive approach will continue to support safe and effective operations. Broadening participation and strengthening partnerships The Committee recognises the importance of representing a diverse range of voices and experiences across the marine science community. Encouraging broader participation in marine research remains an important priority. The Committee supports efforts to raise awareness of MNF opportunities, improve accessibility of information and explore more flexible pathways for researchers to engage with the facility. The Committee reaffirmed the importance of meaningful and enduring engagement with Traditional Owners and Indigenous communities, recognising that strong partnerships are fundamental to research undertaken on Sea Country. The Committee supports an approach grounded in respect, collaboration and shared outcomes, and emphasised that Indigenous engagement must be authentic, appropriately resourced and focused on delivering genuine benefits for communities. The Committee sees significant opportunity for the MNF to support Indigenous participation in marine science while fostering long-term relationships that strengthen both research outcomes and stewardship of Australia's marine environment. Supporting nationally significant science The Committee was pleased to receive a presentation highlighting the role of marine science in understanding and protecting Australia's underwater cultural heritage. The presentation showcased the diverse ways in which the MNF contributes to nationally significant outcomes beyond traditional research disciplines. As Australia faces increasing environmental, economic and strategic challenges in our marine domain, the Committee remains committed to ensuring the MNF continues to enable world-class science, support national priorities and deliver lasting benefit for Australia. Steering Committee Membership: farewells and welcomes The Committee welcomed new MNF Steering Committee members Ms Katrina Maguire and Professor Jan Strugnell and looks forward to the perspectives and expertise they will bring to future discussions. The Committee is also currently seeking to appoint new members in 2027. Expressions of interest are due by 7 September 2026. Name Role Ms Anne-Marie Lansdown Chair – Independent Mr Greg Hood Member – Government Prof Jan Strugnell Member – User Community Ms Katrina Maguire Member – Government Mr Keld Knudsen Member – Industry Dr Elizabeth (Beth) Woods Member – Independent Dr Nerile Abram Ex officio – Australian Antarctic Division Dr Lyndon Llewellyn Ex officio – National Marine Science Committee Dr Rob Hough Ex officio – CSIRO Delegate Prof Alex Brown Observer – CSIRO Board Ms Toni Moate Prof Peter Steinberg Mr Peter Cochrane Observer – MNF Director Observer – RAC Chair Observer – NBAC Chair Anne-Marie Lansdown Chair, MNF Steering Committee