Australian Synchrotron and ANSTO join forces to advance Australian science

The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) will become the new operator of the Australian Synchrotron from 1 January 2013, bringing two of Australia’s most significant pieces of scientific infrastructure together and advancing scientific outcomes for the nation.

Following the announcement in March this year of the Australian and Victorian Governments’ joint $100 million, four-year funding arrangement for operation of the synchrotron, it has been agreed that a new operating company be established. At an extraordinary general meeting on 26 October, the Australian Synchrotron Board unanimously agreed to resolutions that will enable the establishment of a new operating company for the facility. The company, named Synchrotron Light Source Australia, will be a wholly owned subsidiary of ANSTO.

Bringing the Australian Synchrotron under ANSTO’s operation will build on the well-established partnership that currently exists between the two organisations, with many researchers utilising the capabilities of both facilities. The close collaboration between the organisations is long-standing, with ANSTO being a Foundation Investor in the synchrotron.

Australian Synchrotron Director Professor Keith Nugent said, “The outcome of this agreement is that the future of the Australian Synchrotron is secured until at least 30 June 2016. Both organisations have a history of generating exceptional scientific research outputs and this can only be enhanced through the partnership of the Australian Synchrotron with ANSTO.”

Professor Nugent also acknowledged the tremendous support from the university community, which has invested over $25 million.

ANSTO CEO Dr Adi Paterson said, “This opportunity is about making sure that Australian scientists and researchers can access great infrastructure and make great contributions to science that benefit all of us. It also allows Australia to remain a global science contributor.”

The management of the facility will undergo a transition period, with Synchrotron Light Source Australia expected to assume control from 1 January 2013.