The Open Access movement is the worldwide effort to provide free online access to scientific and scholarly research literature.
If research is Open Access, it can be read online, downloaded, copied, distributed, printed, searched, or linked by anyone, anywhere, no paywalls, no subscriptions, no barriers; enriching Open Knowledge and Open Science.
Open access is not just a technical issue, it’s a matter of human rights and global equity. UNESCO urges all stakeholders, such as governments, institutions, researchers, and citizens, to embrace open access as a path toward a more just and informed world.
Publishing Open Access (OA) is your opportunity to amplify your research, increase your impact, and contribute to global knowledge equity.
There are many benefits to open access:
Unrestricted Access
Open access ensures that your research is available to anyone, anywhere, at any time—without paywalls or subscription barriers. This accelerates the dissemination of knowledge and allows for timely engagement with your work, especially in fast-moving fields where rapid access can influence ongoing research and decision-making.
Compliance with Funding Requirements
Making your research open access ensures compliance with funding body mandates and avoids potential issues with future funding applications. In Australia, both the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) have adopted Open Access mandates.
Increased Visibility and Potential for Higher Citation Rates
By removing access restrictions, your work becomes more discoverable through search engines and academic databases, increasing its reach and impact. This visibility can enhance your academic reputation and contribute to career advancement.
Broader Audience Reach
Open access allows your research to be accessed by individuals and institutions that may not have the resources for journal subscriptions. This includes: researchers in developing countries, policymakers, industry and community organisations.
Supports Equity and Inclusion in Knowledge Sharing
Open access helps level the playing field by providing equal access to information regardless of geographic location or institutional affiliation. It promotes a more inclusive research ecosystem where diverse voices can engage with and build upon existing work.
Facilitates Collaboration and Innovation
When research is freely available, it encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. Open access can lead to new partnerships, applications of research in unexpected contexts, and the development of new ideas that might not emerge in closed environments.