The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has released a comprehensive vision for Queensland’s future, calling for significant investment in the state’s tech workforce to ensure the growth of new industries.
This comes as the state prepares for its upcoming election, with the ATSE emphasising the need for Queensland to capitalise on advancements in renewable energy, digital innovation, and manufacturing, the organisation said in a news release.
ATSE has proposed five key actions to unlock the full economic and social potential of the state:
- Increase investment in digital skills in regional areas
- Implement policies that incentivise efficient energy solutions
- Develop a state-wide sustainable water management plan
- Foster the adoption of emerging technologies
- Create an integrated population and land use plan.
Recent federal and state investments, including the $1 billion Solar SunShot initiative and $940 million in PsiQuantum’s start-up venture, have laid the foundation for new lucrative industries in Queensland.
However, ATSE stressed that the success of these sectors hinges on a strong STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) workforce, which requires targeted support at every educational and career level.
ATSE also pointed to a need for improving digital literacy in regional and remote areas. The 2023 Digital Inclusion Index revealed that digital access in remote areas scores six points lower on average than in major cities.
Kylie Walker, CEO of ATSE, highlighted the state’s underinvestment in innovation, stating that Queensland allocates only 0.07 per cent of its Gross State Product to developing new technologies.
“Innovation and technology are the foundations for economic growth and prosperity.?We call on all candidates in the Queensland election to engage with the innovation sector to build a more prosperous future for all Queenslanders and lock in the gains the state has made in developing pioneering new industries,” Walker stated.
Dr Sue Keay, chair of ATSE’s Queensland Division, echoed these sentiments, urging the government to prioritise STEM education and industries.
“Queensland has the ability to lead the nation as Australia’s innovation state, but we must invest in STEM education and industries,” she said.
