The Australian Government has launched the Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 Year Action Plan.
Under the plan the Government will invest $255 million over the next ten years to enhance Australia's Antarctic logistics and science capabilities.
The funding includes $55 million for infrastructure and $200 million for sustainable ongoing funding for the Australian Antarctic program, which includes the acquisition of a new icebreaker - a modern platform for marine science research in both sea ice and open water and a moon pool for launching and retrieving remotely operated vehicles.
A deep-field overland science traverse capability and mobile research station infrastructure will provide essential support for critical Antarctic science.