Biologue

Issue 24
Australian Biological Resources Study, June 2001
ISSN 0814 B8880

Introduction

The Australian Biological Resources Study (ABRS) is a programme of Environment Australia. It was initiated in 1973 by the Australian Government to address the lack of adequate knowledge of the flora and fauna of Australia.

ABRS promotes taxonomic and biogeographic studies of Australian biodiversity through two mechanisms:

the Participatory Programme, a unique research grants scheme which provides funds towards taxonomic and biogeographic research; and
the Scientific and Communication Subprogrammes which produce major national series of flora and fauna books, electronic products and databases. ABRS also produces occasional publications on taxonomy, biogeography and closely related subjects.

In addition to the grants scheme and the publications, ABRS also offers other information services and funding schemes. Details of these programmes and services are provided in this newsletter.