The Government has launched a new website designed to serve as a direct link between researchers, industry and media.
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry and Science, Karen Andrews, launched SciMex, the Science Media Exchange, late last week.
It was created by the Australian Science Media Centre (AusSMC) following a $300,000 grant from the Federal Government.
“Access to accurate and interesting science information is part of informing all Australians about day to day issues affecting their lives.
“SciMex is a great initiative that allows scientists and other researchers to pitch their stories directly to the media and create a profile as a topic expert. It also provides an online hub for training and information for journalists, science media offers and scientists,” Mrs Andrews said.
This site, which essentially mimics existing general news information sites run by private sector organisations, will allow research institutions and industry to upload media releases, scientific papers and multimedia directly to a site that is only accessible to registered journalists.
“Providing journalists better access to rapid reactions by experts on breaking stories, embargoed science stories, images and videos will be a great way to boost the profile of scientific achievements,” Mrs Andrews said.