CABAH

The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH) brings together traditionally separate fields such as the earth sciences, ecology, genetics, archaeology and Indigenous studies to develop a full narrative of a story that begins long before human arrival.

CABAH explores the co-existence of Indigenous knowledge systems and contemporary science, to discover new and surprising insights into how Australians have lived throughout history and help us tackle future challenges, such as the increase in bushfires and rises in sea levels.

The understanding of Australia’s epic story cannot be an academic endeavour alone. Only by sharing what we discover with communities will we be able to learn lessons and change our future. With your support, we will bring the latest insights into our extraordinary environmental and human history to the wider public through an extensive engagement and education program.

What your gift could achieve

• We will inspire young people to be curious, and show how we can use science to understand our country’s development. In particular, we will help to encourage more children to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
• We will inspire a shared and inclusive idea of our past and potential future. We will encourage everyone to have respect for our landscape and history, and show that they have a role in managing and protecting the nation’s cultural and natural resources.
• By focusing on children and young people, we will give a new generation a broader appreciation of how we came to be where we are today, and inspire them to use yesterday’s lessons to benefit tomorrow’s society.
• The education and engagement programs will also support the Australian government’s National Innovation and Science Agenda, to help create jobs and drive economic growth.
• More broadly, a renewed understanding of Australia’s environmental history and Indigenous heritage will help us all to better comprehend modern challenges, including human displacement and climate change adaptation.