The five priorities and five imperatives will shape government's science investment activities over the next decade to support its Future Made in Australia agenda.
AusBiotech welcomes the announcement of the new National Science Statement and National Science and Research Priorities, with the updated framework reflecting Australia's need for resilient and sustainable solutions with science and innovation at the core.
The Statement lists five collective imperatives that will shape Australian science investment over the next decade. These include:
- 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; and
- A science system prepared for future challenges.
In the Statement, each imperative includes three to four targets to recognise and implement the imperative into science activities.
Australia's Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley, led a national conversation to refresh the Government's science framework, speaking with stakeholders across science, research, and industry, and communities to shape the priorities that support the Statement.
The five priorities that will guide government, university and private sector efforts 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.
