Italy and Australia have enjoyed a long standing relationship in bilateral science and technology. This relationship, as measured by publications, has more than tripled over the past decade. Italy was Australia’s eighth highest publications partner over the period 2011-15, with almost 8000 joint publications, whilst Australia was Italy’s eleventh highest collaborator over the same period. Italy, along with Australia, is a founding member, and one of the ten full members, of the Square Kilometre Array global science project.  There are over 190 active cooperation agreements between Italian and Australian universities and research agencies. Bilateral scientific cooperation has also been enhanced by the many young and talented Italian scientists who have recently migrated to Australia to pursue their careers. Both countries remain committed in continuing this research relationship to mutual benefit. The Embassy of Italy, the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science and the Australian Academy of Science are hosting the first Italy-Australia science and innovation forum at the Shine Dome in Canberra. The Forum aims to inform and highlight the science and innovation capabilities of both countries and to identify mechanisms and processes for enhancing bilateral cooperation in science and innovation.