A Vision for University Science The Australian Council of Deans of Science (ACDS) is the national peak body representing science in Australian universities — the voice of university science. University science sits at the centre of national capability: our graduates power the workforce, our research drives productivity and innovation, and our leaders help shape the issues facing society and the future. At a time of rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty, and growing demand for skills, university science is not simply a sectoral concern — it is critical national infrastructure. University science is unique in bringing together education, discovery and translation in one integrated system. It spans undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, foundational and applied research, and the translation of knowledge into impact. In doing so, it connects world-class research with teaching and learning and helps build a scientifically literate, highly skilled community. Our vision is: An Australia that trusts, values and invests in university science as a foundation of national prosperity, and benefits from its contributions to education, research and leadership. ACDS brings a comprehensive national perspective across the university science landscape. Grounded in the leadership of university science, we complement and strengthen other voices across science and higher education while providing a coherent, authoritative voice for university science. Strategic Plan: 2026-2030 Our Strategic Plan sets out a clear vision, mission and direction for strengthening university science education, research, leadership and national capability over the next five years. It is built around four strategic goals:1. Champion Teaching & Learning Leadership;2. Strengthen Pathways for Research & Research Translation;3. Build Influence Through Strategic Engagement and Communication; and4. Strengthen First Nations Partnerships and Engagement in University Science. Download the full ACDS Strategic Plan 2026–2030. Implementation Framework We implement our Strategy through a structured program of work that provides a clear line of sight from strategic goals to long-term impact. Our Implementation Framework sets out how ACDS organises, delivers, monitors and reviews its work over the life of the Strategic Plan, combining core operations with annual planning, outcome monitoring, governance oversight and adaptive review.Our Implementation Framework will be available for download soon. Annual Operational Plan Our Annual Operational Plan sets out the activities undertaken each year in support of the Strategic Plan. It includes: Core activities — including conferences, workshops and other initiatives — that support members and stakeholders, strengthen leadership across university science, and deliver value to the sector. Key activities are summarised here. Priority Initiatives — agreed upon annually by the Executive. These Inititatives complement our core activities and support delivery of our Strategic Goals. View our current Priority Initiatives.
