About Us

The Royal Society of New South Wales

The Royal Society of New South Wales is the oldest learned society in the Southern Hemisphere, tracing its origin to the Philosophical Society of Australasia, founded in Sydney in 1821. It became the Royal Society of New South Wales by Royal Assent in 1866 and was incorporated by an Act of the NSW Parliament in 1881.

The Society encourages "...studies and investigations in Science, Art, Literature and Philosophy" through activities such as: Publications of results of scientific investigations through its Journal and Proceedings.

  • Awarding prizes and medals for outstanding achievements in research
  • Liaison with other similar bodies
  • Holding meetings for the benefit of members and the general public
  • Maintaining a Library

Southern Highlands Branch

The Society's Southern Highlands Branch is located in the Southern Highlands of NSW. It conducts monthly lectures at Mittagong, mostly but not exclusively on scientific topics. Both members and visitors are most welcome to attend.

More about membership

Hunter Branch

In October 2019, the Society opened a branch in the Hunter region of NSW. You are currently in the website of the Southern Highlands Branch of the Royal Society of NSW.

Learn more