Friends of Evidence
A new, non-partisan initiative that brings together individuals and organisations committed to supporting the visibility, credibility and reach of trustworthy science.
Why is Friends of Evidence needed?
Science misinformation is reaching unprecedented levels in Australia and globally, fuelled by social media, generative AI tools and increasingly polarised public debate. 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 and social cohesion.
"With over 20 years of experience connecting journalists and the public with science, the AusSMC is uniquely placed to lead this work. Its independence, established relationships with thousands of scientists, research institutions and journalists, and proven platforms such as Scimex.org make it a trusted bridge between evidence and national conversations."
"Combating science misinformation is not something we can leave to governments or any one sector. It’s going to require sustained effort, trusted intermediaries and genuine collaboration across sectors. Friends of Evidence exists to meet that challenge — and to help ensure evidence reaches the public when it matters most."
What will it do?
Friends of Evidence will provide strategic support for initiatives that amplify evidence, respond to misinformation and strengthen confidence in science. It will also act as a brains trust, bringing together supporters, experts and partners to help shape future approaches.
By becoming a Friend of Evidence, supporters willl be backing practical projects, contributing ideas, and participating in a national conversation about how best to defend and promote scientific evidence in public life.
All contributions are 100% tax deductible and major donors will be acknowledged on our website.
Friends of Evidence annual donations
Friend
Up to $2,000
Advocate
$2,000 to $20,000
Champion
Above $20,000
Friend for Life
A Friend for Life is recognised through a one-off contribution of $100,000 or more, demonstrating an enduring commitment to standing up for evidence and strengthening trust in science for the long term.
Direct deposit
You can donate via direct deposit.
BSB: 035-002
Account number: 516 836
Account name: Australian Science Media Centre Incorporated Public Fund
For receipt purposes, please email donate@smc.org.au with your name and email address or call (08) 7120 8664. Please mention "FoE" and use your initials and surname in the transaction description.
Why the Australian Science Media Centre?
The AusSMC is uniquely positioned to lead this work. For over 20 years, the charity has built deep trust across science, journalism, policy and the public, acting as a credible, non-partisan bridge between evidence and national conversations.
Having established relationships with thousands of experts and journalists, a proven track record of timely information through platforms such as Scimex, and independence from political or commercial interests, the AusSMC is able to respond quickly, working with scientists and journalists to ensure that evidence reaches audiences when it matters most.
Supporting Friends of Evidence leverages this trusted infrastructure and expertise, delivering impact far beyond what any single organisation could achieve alone.
Frequently asked questions
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes, donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible in Australia. The Australian Science Media Centre is a specifically listed Deductible Gift Recipient under Australian tax law (DGR1 status). You will receive a confirmation email with a receipt for your records, which you can use for tax purposes.
How can I engage with Friends of Evidence?
Donors can sign up to regular updates on this topic.
Can I be publicly acknowledged as a supporter of Friends of Evidence?
Major donors will be acknowledged on our website. If you prefer to remain anonymous, please tick the anonymity box when making your contribution or if you contribute via direct deposit, please email donate@smc.org.au with your wish to remain anonymous.