New National Science Statement and National Science and Research Priorities have been released and place science at the forefront of an industrial transition to net zero.
This is a part of the Federal Government’s push for a world-class science and research sector to help build a Future Made in Australia.
The priorities are aimed at better preparing the nation to face future pandemics, adapting to a changing climate, and responding to rapid developments in artificial intelligence and automation.
There are five total National Science and Research Priorities that will guide government, university and private sector efforts, and these are:
- Transitioning to a net zero future – to develop and adopt next generation technologies, particularly in clean energy and storage, advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum and robotics.
- Supporting healthy and thriving communities – so more Australians can enjoy healthier lives from birth well into old age.
- Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems – to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people particularly to have more of a say in advancing research that affects them.
- Protecting and restoring Australia’s environment – to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect our biodiversity, diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
- Building a secure and resilient nation – to strengthen our democratic institutions while addressing economic, social, geopolitical, defence and national security challenges.
In unveiling the priorities and statement, minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said it’s been nearly a decade since the last priorities were released.
“Great ideas of our scientists and researchers lead to great products and great jobs,” said Husic.
“We want science to drive industry growth, creating stronger businesses and more secure, well-paid jobs for Australians.”
There are also five imperatives in the statement that will shape Australian science investment over the next decade, and these are:
- Australian scientists, science institutions, and infrastructure shaping Australia’s science future.
- Science at the centre of Australian industry.
- A diverse, skilled workforce to underpin the translation of science into new industries.
- Embracing science to drive Australia’s regional and global interests.
- A science system prepared for future challenges.
The Federal Government tasked the chief scientist, Dr Cathy Foley, in leading a national conversation that would ultimately shape this science framework.
Dr Foley led a nationwide consultation process speaking to hundreds of people across science, research and industry.
“It’s fantastic to know that Australians share this ambition for the country we want to be – one that protects our unique environment, moves quickly to clean energy in a way that creates new industries and maintains prosperity, ensures everyone has access to advanced healthcare no matter where they live, and protects the strength of our democracy,” said Foley.