This paper describes the process and outcomes of a collaborative process across different Australian stakeholder groups to identify the highest priorities in wind-wave research.

The Australian marine research, industry and stakeholder community has recently undertaken an extensive collaborative process to identify the highest national priorities for wind-waves research. This was undertaken under the auspices of the Forum for Operational Oceanography Surface Wave’s Working Group. The main steps in the process were firstly, soliciting possible research questions from the community via an online survey; secondly, reviewing the questions at a face-to-face workshop; and thirdly, online ranking of the research questions by individuals. This process resulted in 15 identified priorities, covering research activities and the development of infrastructure. The top 5 priorities are 1) Enhanced and updated nearshore and coastal bathymetry; 2) Improved understanding of extreme sea-states; 3) Maintain and enhance in situ buoy network; 4) Improved data access and sharing; and 5) Ensemble and probabilistic wave modelling and forecasting. In this paper, each of the 15 priorities is discussed in detail, providing insight into why each priority is important, and the current state-of-the-art, both nationally and internationally, where relevant. While this process has been driven by Australian needs, it is likely that the results will be relevant to other marine-focussed nations.