Royal Institution of Australia

The Royal Institution of Australia (RiAus), is a national scientific not-for-profit organisation with a mission to 'bring science to people and people to science'. It opened in October 2009.

Concept

The concept of a Royal Institution of Australia was proposed by Baroness Professor Susan Greenfield CBE, as Thinker in Residence for the South Australian Government during 2004 and 2005. Greenfield was Director of the Royal Institution of Great Britain from 1998 to 2010. The South Australian Premier Mike Rann was receptive of the idea and secured State, Federal and private sector funding for the building and the programs. The Royal Institution of Australia's inaugural Chairman is Peter Yates AM.

As a national hub for science communication, RiAus promotes public awareness and understanding of science. RiAus highlights the importance of science in everyday life by creating online content, public events, and education and teacher support programs.

RiAus foundation partners include the State Government of South Australia, the Commonwealth Government and Santos Ltd. It has a paid membership program, including both corporate and individual members, and most events are free.