This afternoon, the Hon Greg Hunt MP delivered a major speech as Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science to the National Research and Innovation Alliance at the Shine Dome in Canberra.
Shadow Minister, the Hon Senator Kim Carr, also addressed the Alliance to outline the opposition’s commitment to the research, science and technology sectors.
The Australian Academy of Science and Science and Technology Australia, co-convenors of the Alliance, have praised the emphasis on science and research by the Minister and Shadow Minister today.
Secretary Science Policy at the Australian Academy of Science, Professor Les Field, said their comments showed that both major parties recognise the importance of science and research to Australia’s future prosperity and wellbeing.
“The Alliance is heartened by the emphasis being placed on science and research,” said Professor Field.
“We will be working with Minister Hunt and the Government to ensure their commitment to the National Innovation and Science agenda fosters successful economic, social and environmental outcomes for Australia.”
Professor Field said the Alliance was particularly pleased by positive initiatives to foster collaboration between Australian researchers and international colleagues, such as the $18m Global Innovation Linkages programme.
CEO of Science and Technology Australia, Kylie Walker, also commended the Minister’s declaration that ‘science is at the centre’ of his portfolio.
“We are eager to work in partnership with government and the opposition crossbenchers to keep Australia’s science and research capability at the cutting edge,” Ms Walker said.
Through open dialogue between government, the research, science and technology community, and industry, we can achieve more.”
Ms Walker said the National Research and Innovation Alliance was also interested in the renewed commitment to climate science through exciting and valuable new initiatives like multi-year climate predictions.
“These will be of immense value to the Australian community,” she said.
The National Research and Innovation Alliance membership includes: Australian Academy of Science; Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering; Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia; Australian Academy of the Humanities; Professional Scientists Australia; Association of Australian Medical Research Institutes; Australian Society for Medical Research; Cooperative Research Centres Association; Council of Rural Research and Development Corporations; Regional Universities Network; Research Australia; Australian Technology Network; Innovative Research Universities; Professionals Australia; Group of Eight; Science and Technology Australia; and Universities Australia.
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