Understanding how the brain works – cracking its code – is one of the greatest scientific challenges of our time.

Australian researchers are playing a significant role in this international effort, and the Australian Brain Alliance (ABA; established in 2016 under the auspices of the Australian Academy of Science) has been instrumental in establishing the International Brain Initiative that has brought together all of the major international brain science programs.

To capitalise on this momentum and ensure Australian brain science is well positioned to deliver real benefits to Australians, this project proposes to use a consultative process to determine the requirements for a coordinated and internationally-compatible national brain science data framework. The consultation process will involve stakeholders across academic research disciplines, as well as from government, the private sector, and relevant community groups. It will include a focus on FAIR data principles as well as ethical, privacy and confidentiality issues.