August 12, 2024
Australia's new National Science and Research Priorities will support our world class researchers in their endeavour to find solutions to our most pressing challenges. However, lifting investment in Australian research and development is critical to achieving this.
The Group of Eight (Go8), comprising Australia's leading research-intensive universities worked closely with the Australian Government and the Chief Scientist to develop cohesive, effective and long-term National Science and Research Priorities to guide the nation's science and research efforts.
Go8 universities undertake 70 percent of all university based research in Australia, invest $7.7 billion annually in research, representing 20 per cent of the total national investment in R&D by business, governments and the higher education sector combined.
"The priorities are relevant not only to universities and publicly funded research agencies but provide clear direction to Australian industries and businesses who must be encouraged to consider these priorities as a first indication of how to diversify their R&D investments," said Go8 Chief Executive Vicki Thomson.
"However, lifting investment in science and innovation is essential for Australia's future prosperity, to develop new industries, remain internationally competitive and find solutions to our greatest challenges in the areas of energy, environment, health and broader societal issues."
The Go8 reiterates its call for the Australian Government to adopt the ambitious decadal Roadmap of policy reforms to lift Australia's R&D intensity to 3 percent of GDP by 2035 as detailed in Australia's R&D Intensity: A Decadal Roadmap to 3% of GDP, the Group of Eight Universities Report to the Australian Government.
"The policy reforms outlined in the Go8 Roadmap are consistent with the intent of the National Science and Research Priorities to shape investment and effort across the university and private sectors. The adoption of these reforms would ensure 'national effort' and commitment to transforming the economy, research translation and commercialisation of our best ideas.
"Currently Australia's university research effort relies on funding from international student fee revenue. The Government's plan to cap international student enrolments will have severe consequences for the nation's research capability.
"Adequate funding is an absolute necessity if our national science and research priorities are to translate into tangible outcomes," said Ms Thomson.
