The Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania is seeking expressions of interest for Sustainable Marine Research Advisory Committee (SMRAC) Membership. SMRAC plays a crucial role in monitoring the performance of the Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA), a collaboration between the University of Tasmania and the State Government.
Through this agreement, the University of Tasmania and IMAS aim to:
- undertake leading, world-class research into temperate marine and coastal research
- support the effective and sustainable management of Tasmanian marine resources and ensure that the maximum benefit accrues to the Tasmanian environment, economy and its industries
- provide fisheries, aquaculture, estuarine and coastal environmental research and development services to the Crown, the University, and the fishing and aquaculture industries
- support the Crown's legislative and administrative obligations through the provision of research, data and advice
- assist in developing and encouraging new industry and marketing Tasmania's natural marine resources in a way that is sustainable now and for future generations
- build the capacity of people working in temperate marine research, including postgraduate students, and
- encourage partnerships, linkages and integrated arrangements which would facilitate achievement of the Agreement through industry engagement.
The Advisory Committee’s key responsibilities include (together with the SMRCA Director and IMAS Executive Director):
- Developing the SMRCA Strategic Plan and the Annual Operating Plan and overseeing their implementation.
- Monitoring the performance of the SMRCA Research Programs and Projects to ensure that they are undertaken in accordance with the Annual Operating Plan.
- Providing advice to the Minister through the Executive Director.
- Oversee and take recommendations from the SMRCA’s Research Advisory Groups.
Members should have appropriate specialist expertise covering the major uses of marine resources including, but not limited to commercial fisheries, recreational fisheries, indigenous and cultural fisheries, aquaculture and marine tourism.
Membership appointments will be for at least one year and not more than 5 years. Applicants are advised that attendance is required at quarterly meetings and fees for attendance will be paid.
Expressions of interest for the above member vacancies are sought by 4 February 2025.
Interested applicants are encouraged to contact Sean Tracey, Director, SMRCA - 03 6226 8286.
To apply, please provide a statement outlining your interest in the role, and relevant experience and expertise by email to smrca.administration@utas.edu.au.