The Australian Science Media Centre (AusSMC) is an independent, non-profit service for the news media, giving journalists direct access to evidence-based science and expertise.
The Centre’s aim is to better inform public debate on the major issues of the day by improving links between local and international media and the Australian scientific community. The Centre operates a database of scientists who are willing to engage with the media. The AusSMC operates from Adelaide with five full time and one casual staff and is headed by CEO Dr Susannah Eliott. The AusSMC collects rapid round-ups of expert opinion and comments from scientists in reaction to breaking news and also runs national media briefings for journalists in cities around Australia. Media briefings are also streamed live over the internet.
The Centre also collaborates with media officers and scientists. Journalists are able to register with the AusSMC to receive media alerts and rapid roundups by email.
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The AusSMC receives funding from more than 20 sponsors in media, academic institutions, government and industry groups. Sponsorship is capped at 10% of total funding. For an up-to-date list of sponsors, see [1]
Science Media Centres exist in other countries; Canada, UK, New Zealand, and Japan. These centres are independent of each other, but cooperate regularly.