For media: How to use the AusSMC

How to use the Australian Science Media Centre

The primary focus of the AusSMC is to provide journalists with scientific experts and accurate, evidence-based information within the required timeframe.

Due to limited resources, priority is given to Australian journalists working in news and current affairs.

Register

If you are a journalist and would like to receive AusSMC’s rapid roundups, alerts and details of AusSMC events please fill in our journalist registration form.

Finding an expert

When covering a science story for news or current affairs, journalists can call (08) 8207 7415 or email us and we will use our database and contacts to put you in touch with the right person. This is a free service available to any Australian journalist.

Our database is populated with experts who are highly credible within their field, have excellent communication skills and who have agreed to respond to reporters at short notice. Most of the experts are Australian though we also have access to some key overseas experts on international issues.

Rapid Roundup of scientific opinion

One of the most useful services we provide is a Roundup of scientists’ reactions to breaking news – a series of quotes from experts around the country. This can be invaluable as a:

• Source of quotes
• Gauge of what the scientific community thinks about a new development
• List of potential interviewees for print or broadcast

Media briefings

We also look at big picture, controversial issues and one of the advantages of the Centre’s independence is our ability to bring scientists from different scientific institutions onto the same platform to talk to journalists. These media briefings:

• Help journalists get background information on stories they will be covering in the coming months
• Enable scientists to be more pro-active about issues likely to arouse public concern

Hours of Operation

The AusSMC is operated by a small team and we aim to open between 8am and 6pm CST. If you need to talk to us urgently outside these hours please call 0424 676 136.