AIMS: Australia's tropical marine research agency. The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) is an Australian Government statutory authority established in 1972. AIMS has highly developed capabilities in marine biodiversity, impacts and adaptation to climate change, water quality and ecosystem health. Fisheries, offshore oil and gas, mining, bulk ports, reef tourism and aquaculture industries have all benefited from AIMS research that is geared towards the protection and sustainable development of tropical marine resources. The Institute maintains specialised, world class marine research facilities in Townsville, Perth and Darwin, providing ready access to Australia's tropical coasts and seas. The Institute operates two major vessels, the RV Cape Ferguson and the RV Solander, which support access to ecosystems across the continental shelf, and a fleet of smaller vessels that support near-shore fieldwork . AIMS' research effort is designed to ensure that it is meeting the challenges facing our tropical marine ecosystems and the requirements of our stakeholders.