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About us

Funded by the Australian Government, we are Australia's dedicated blue-water research facility, enabling world-class research across our vast marine estate.

The Marine National Facility (MNF) was established in 1984 to provide Australia with a dedicated capability to conduct excellent ocean research for national benefit. It is national research infrastructure funded by the Australian Government and operated by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, on behalf of the nation.

The MNF includes:

  • the multidisciplinary ocean-class research vessel (RV) Investigator
  • a suite of advanced scientific instrumentation and equipment
  • a collection of 40 years of marine data made freely available for the benefit of all
  • world-leading expertise in vessel and voyage management, and technology development.

We are overseen by an independent Steering Committee which reports to the CSIRO Board.

Allocation of sea time on RV Investigator is managed through a competitive application process open to Australian researchers and their international collaborators. Project proposals are assessed for research excellence and national benefit by independent expert committees.

We strive to exceed our partner expectations in the delivery of safe, excellent and efficient marine research.

Important statistics

Our goal

To enhance the long-term prosperity of Australia’s marine environment, industries and community by providing information that supports evidence‑based decision making by government, industry and our community.

Our objective

To deliver safe, efficient and excellent marine research that maximises the opportunities and benefits from our resources to ensure we provide the highest return on investment for the nation.

Our results

An unrivalled record of delivering high quality research to furnish the national understanding. We continuously look to the future, helping researchers find solutions to our greatest challenges through innovative science and technology development.

Contact us

Find out how we can help you and your business. Get in touch using the form below and our experts will get in contact soon!

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