2026 Distinguished Geoscience Australia Lectures and Public Talk Series has arrived!
Page last updated:3 March 2026
Geoscience Australia Chief Scientist Dr Steve Hill, sharing his love of Earth Science
Our Public Talks are back for 2026! This year, we’re going bigger, bolder and more inspiring than ever. Every fortnight, we’re bringing you conversations that explore the latest Earth science.
Join us in person at our Canberra headquarters in Symonston, tune in live online, or catch up anytime on YouTube. However you choose to take part, 2026 promises to be a dynamic year of discovery, ideas and innovation.
We’re proud to feature five Distinguished Geoscience Australia Lectures (DGALs), each presented by a scientist or Earth science professional recognised for exceptional contributions over the past year. These speakers represent the very best of Geoscience Australia - leaders whose work is pushing boundaries, shaping national decisions, advancing technology and deepening our understanding of Australia’s landscapes, hazards and resources.
Across the full Public Talks program, you’ll experience a rich mix of Earth science themes and expertise. Our presenters will take you behind the scenes of new research, data releases, collaborations, and explore the big questions driving our work in 2026.
Whether you’re a researcher, student, industry partner, policymaker or simply curious about the planet, this year’s Public Talks have something for you. Come learn, question, connect, and be inspired by the science shaping Australia’s future.
Explore the 2026 DGAL lineup, register for upcoming Public Talks with our first one kicking off on Wednesday 11 March, catch up on past sessions, or browse our full archive dating back to 2016.
Upcoming Distinguished Geoscience Australia Lectures (DGALs)
Always Ready: How Geoscience Australia responds to seismic events
Earthquakes can happen anywhere, anytime. When the ground starts to shake, people look to Geoscience Australia for accurate and timely earthquake information.
Presented by: Laura White, Michelle Moran, Clarissa Thorpe, Pip Martens
Putting the ‘Geo’ into ‘Geospatial’: Shaping the future of Positioning Australia
The future direction of the Positioning Australia program, reflecting on its past achievements & how it will meet future positioning demands.
Presented by: Dr. Martine Woolf, Ryan Ruddick, Dr. Anna Riddell, Dr. Lisa Hall, Phil Shears
Achievements, insights, and impact of the Australian Critical Minerals Research & Development Hub
Learn about the Australian Critical Minerals Research & Development Hub’s exceptional contribution to Australia’s precompetitive geoscience from 2022 to 2026, including innovation and collaboration in securing Australia’s critical minerals future.
Presented by: Australian Critical Mineral Research & Development Hub, Geoscience Australia team
Unearthing Giant Earthquakes on Papua New Guinea’s Ramu-Markham Fault
Geoscience Australia and University of Papua New Guinea scientists uncover evidence for giant earthquakes posing a major hazard to the city of Lae.
Presented by: Dr Jonathan Griffin, Dr Dan Clark
Securing water security in Fiji – A direct application of AEM for groundwater exploration
More information will be provided shortly.
Presented by: Ravin Deo