AusSMC launches Friends of Evidence to tackle science misinformation

As science misinformation reaches unprecedented levels in Australia and globally, the Australian Science Media Centre (AusSMC) has launched Friends of Evidence (FoE), a non-partisan initiative that brings together individuals and organisations committed to strengthening the visibility and reach of trustworthy science.

To sustain this mission, we are seeking donations from those who value evidence-based information in the public sphere.

From unproven medicines and vaccine disinformation to false claims about climate change and energy, the consequences are tangible - eroding public confidence, influencing personal health decisions and undermining evidence-based policy. Financial contributions will allow us to monitor these emerging threats, develop new collaborative projects to combat them and provide the public with the factual clarity they need.

Friends of Evidence will provide strategic support for initiatives that amplify evidence and respond to misinformation, including a Science Misinformation Symposium planned for June 2026, bringing together researchers, government, media and the tech sector. A companion social media pilot will extend credible science beyond mainstream media audiences, working in collaboration with content creators.

Donations to Friends of Evidence are tax deductible in Australia, with three tiers of support - Champions, Advocates and Friends.

For more information about Friends of Evidence go to smc.org.au/foe.

Contact: Susannah Eliott

Phone: +61 8 7120 8666

Email: info@smc.org.au