Status note (17 September 2026): this policy was adopted in preparation for charity registration. The Institute is not yet incorporated, registered with the ACNC or endorsed as a Deductible Gift Recipient; see Legal Status and Fundraising. References to Responsible People, the ACNC standards, Directors and a public fund describe the governance standards the Institute has adopted ahead of registration.
1. Introduction
The Australian Institute of Pharmacognosy is dedicated to advancing public health through scientific research into botanical drugs and phytochemistry. Our strategic plan for 2025–2029 outlines our vision, mission, core values, and the priorities that will guide the Institute’s work over the next five years.
2. Vision
To become a leading voice in evidence-based botanical medicine research and education, contributing to public health and scientific advancement both in Australia and globally.
3. Mission
To conduct, publish, and promote high-quality research into medicinal plants, traditional pharmacology, and natural product drug development, while educating professionals and the public in safe, effective botanical practices.
4. Core Values
- Scientific Integrity
- Transparency and Accountability
- Public Benefit and Accessibility
- Cultural and Ecological Respect
- Innovation in Natural Product Discovery
5. Strategic Priorities (2025–2029)
5.1 Legal and Institutional Development
Complete ACNC registration, DGR endorsement, and secure incorporation as a not-for-profit scientific institution. (Progress as at 17 September 2026: none of these steps is complete yet; incorporation must come first. See Legal Status and Fundraising.) Establish financial systems, formal governance policies, and legal standing for long-term sustainability.
5.2 Research Program Establishment
Undertake foundational research into extraction methodologies of volatile botanical compounds and launch the Chair’s master’s thesis as a flagship project. Expand project base over time to include collaborations in pharmacology, ethnobotany, and compound analysis.
5.3 Infrastructure and Resource Building
Utilise in-kind access to laboratory, nursery, and clinical resources provided by the Chair. Expand with grant funding to build dedicated research facilities and equipment holdings over time.
5.4 Public Engagement and Education
Develop workshops, seminars, and public-facing educational content to improve understanding of herbal pharmacology. Establish digital presence through website and multimedia platforms.
5.5 Partnerships and Collaborations
Forge partnerships with academic institutions, researchers, and community stakeholders. Where appropriate, formalise relationships through MOUs or research partnerships aligned with Institute values.
5.6 Financial Sustainability and Fundraising
Launch strategic fundraising campaigns to attract donations, sponsorships, and government grants. Explore philanthropic partnerships and crowd-funded public support. (Note, 17 September 2026: public fundraising will start only once the Institute’s fundraising arrangements under Queensland law are settled.)
6. Monitoring and Evaluation
The Board will review progress toward strategic goals annually and publish an annual summary report. Milestones will be tracked against deliverables in research, education, engagement, and financial growth.
Approval
Approved by the Board of the Australian Institute of Pharmacognosy.