National Science and Research Priorities published
After many months of consultation, the new National Science and Research Priorities have been published. Why is this important to industry? The priorities define the areas for future government investment in innovation and research and development and should be consulted as part of developing any future Commonwealth grant proposals. The priorities are accompanied by Australia's National Science Statement which provides insight into the reasoning behind the priorities.
This new framework is designed to position science at the forefront of Australia's industrial transformation, aiming to tackle both national and global challenges.
The five key National Science and Research Priorities are:
Transitioning to a Net Zero Future: This includes developing next-generation technologies in clean energy, advanced materials, quantum science and artificial intelligence.
Supporting Healthy and Thriving Communities: Ensuring that Australians enjoy healthier lives.
Elevating Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to collaborate in research that affects their communities. To develop policy to improve the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is shaped by science, research and strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Protecting and Restoring Australia’s Environment: Addressing the impacts of climate change and preserving biodiversity.
Building a Secure and Resilient Nation: Strengthening Australia's capacity to address various national security and economic challenges.
This initiative places a strong emphasis on integrating science into industry, enhancing the country's resilience, and fostering innovation. It also acknowledges the importance of Indigenous knowledge systems and the need for a skilled and diverse workforce to drive new industries.
The new priorities reflect a broader consultation led by Australia's Chief Scientist, Dr. Cathy Foley, and are intended to guide the nation’s science investment and policy decisions for the coming decade.