NSAChairman's Report

A major focus for Neurosciences Australia throughout the year has been the review of the Company's governance structure to better suit its national aims and objectives. An extensive consultative process was undertaken, including input from Members, resulting in a refined governance model. Changes to the Constitution involve the introduction of a structure to accommodate equal numbers of Members' and Independent directors. The move away from a representational board has been undertaken as NSA seeks to expand its membership base beyond the current five members and provide for membership of individual institutes, as well as State based bodies. Finalisation of the new model took place with the acceptance of the new Constitution by the Members at a General Meeting in August 2007 with the new Directors to be appointed at the Company's 2007 Annual General Meeting. Further, a Scientific Advisory Committee is to be formed, comprised of a wide national membership.

NSA is grateful for the $975,000 made available by the Commonwealth Government at the conclusion of the Major National Research Funding grant to sustain the platforms throughout the year whilst awaiting the outcome of National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy funding bids. Unfortunately NSA was unsuccessful in the first round of this program, however, we are hopeful of the opportunity to present proposals in future rounds.

With the cessation of the Commonwealth funding, NSA's platforms will need to function as self-sustainable entities. The platforms are running well, providing sought after services to both academic and commercial customers.

The Board of NSA has engaged in a strategic review focused on seeking large scale neuroscience programs with Australia wide impact. Wide participation in a recent forum for neuroscientists from around the country to develop objectives in this regard demonstrates a desire for a consolidated approach to funding opportunities. The Company has much to offer with its ability to provide a national collaborative approach to neuroscience research.

I would like to thank the Board of Directors for their contributions throughout the year as well as the Members for their valuable input. I would also like to thank the CEO, Dr Andrew Milner and NSA's Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Colin Masters for their valuable work. Finally I acknowledge the outgoing CEO, Associate Professor William Hart, Founding CEO of the Company, for his significant contributions towards NSA's successes.

The Hon. Dr Michael Wooldridge