Message from Chief Executive Officer on COVID-19

1 May 2020

As we see on a daily basis, COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is changing the way organisations around the world are carrying out their business.

In line with Australian Government advice, we have implemented a number of strategies to minimise the spread of COVID-19. We are constantly monitoring these arrangements to ensure there is minimal disruption to the delivery and quality of services.

We are also contributing to the Australian Government’s whole-of-government response to COVID-19, providing scientific expertise and staff to help manage the pandemic. As the government response evolves, we will remain responsive to support this effort as best we can.

We have made changes to how we operate to ensure we can continue to deliver high-quality advice and data to government, industry and the community. In some cases we are making adjustments to our work plans to comply with the government’s COVID-19 safety measures – most notably, social distancing and restricting travel. We have also ceased all fieldwork to ensure the safety of remote communities and our staff. Despite these changes, we are carefully reviewing our work to ensure the continuity of mission critical capabilities and delivery of major programs.

We acknowledge these changes will affect some of our stakeholders, including suppliers and contractors. We are working closely with those impacted to find alternative solutions where possible.

We remain committed to delivering a high standard of service and maintaining relationships during this time. I encourage any concerned stakeholders to reach out to their Geoscience Australia contacts to discuss options or specific programs of work in more detail. Members of the public are encouraged to contact Client Services to discuss how these changes may impact them.

In the months ahead, Geoscience Australia will have a key role to play in the road out from the pandemic. We know that to successfully navigate this road we will need the skills, experience and support of our stakeholders from around Australia and the world.

Regards

Dr James Johnson
Chief Executive Officer