The director of the Australian Antarctic Division has resigned.

Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) director Kim Ellis has announced his resignation after four years in the role.

His resignation has been confirmed by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, effective from 6 March.

The resignation comes weeks before a government-commissioned investigation into allegations of sexual harassment on Australian stations in Antarctica is released. There is no suggestion the timing of his resignation has been influenced by the findings of that report.

Mr Ellis commissioned a previous study into allegations of cultural problems on Antarctic stations, uncovering reports of pornography displayed on walls and unwelcome requests for sex.

The findings of that earlier report were described by environment minister Tanya Plibersek as “gobsmacking”.

At the time, Mr Ellis called on the AAD to face its cultural issues, saying the report had given “real authority to make change in the organisation”.

Mr Ellis referenced that cultural overhaul in his resignation letter.

“You have had to adapt to significant cultural changes as we transition from an expedition to a world leading program; in our safety approach; our diversity, equity and inclusion; our personal qualities; and our alcohol and drug management,” Mr Ellis said, according to reports.

“None of this has been easy or comfortable and there is still much more to do. I am very grateful for the resilience and adaptability I have seen in so many of our people.

“There is still much more change to come and I urge you to look after each other, support your leaders and engage with the process.”

Mr Ellis said the four years he led the AAD had been highly challenging for the division, including issues created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the arrival of a new icebreaking research vessel and changes to government policy.

“You cannot, and must not, work alone, and you can gain so much from our teams in Canberra,” Mr Ellis said.

“Stay close to them, as their early engagement will help the division steer a safe course.”

Meanwhile, Australia's $528 million Antarctic icebreaker ship, Nuyina, is expected to be out of action for this season due to delays in repairs. Again there is no suggestion that Mr Ellis’ resignation is related to the condition of the ship. 

Nuyina is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and can support voyages of up to 90 days at a time, but has been beset by issues. It experienced motor trouble on its way to Hobart in October 2021, and had its maiden voyage to Antarctica delayed due to an issue with the alarm and monitoring system.

An AAD spokesperson has told reporters that the delays have been looming since last year. 

“In July, the AAD announced unexpected issues with Nuyina's propulsion system clutches and a resulting delay for spare parts would see the vessel unlikely to be used for the upcoming season,” the division said.  

‘The AAD chartered Aiviq and cargo vessel, Happy Diamond for the 2022-2023 Antarctic season while RSV Nuyina undergoes scheduled maintenance and repairs in Singapore.

“Like all new and complex ships, Nuyina will require time for commissioning as it prepares to serve Australia's Antarctic and Southern Ocean science efforts in the decades ahead.

The “vessel remains under warranty for the duration of maintenance in Singapore”. 

Nuyina is now expected to return in April.