The Australian Government has released the new National Science Statement and National Science and Research Priorities.
These updated frameworks are designed to position science at the forefront of the nation’s industrial transformation, with a focus on responding to contemporary challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and the rapid advancement of technologies like artificial intelligence and automation.
Unveiling the priorities, Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic noted the significant time lapse since the last National Science Priorities were set nearly a decade ago under the Abbott Government.
He highlighted the necessity of updating these frameworks to better align with the current and future needs of the nation.
“Great ideas of our scientists and researchers lead to great products and great jobs,” Husic stated. “We want science to drive industry growth, creating stronger businesses and more secure, well-paid jobs for Australians.”
For the first time, the framework includes the elevation of Indigenous knowledge systems, acknowledging the wisdom and practices developed over 65,000 years by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
This recognition aims to empower First Nations communities by involving them more directly in research that impacts their lives and the broader Australian society.
The National Science Statement lays out five imperatives that will guide scientific investment and priorities over the next decade.
These include ensuring that Australian scientists and institutions are at the forefront of global innovation, embedding science within industry, fostering a diverse and skilled workforce, leveraging science to enhance Australia’s global interests, and preparing the science system to meet future challenges.
“It’s been nearly ten years since the Abbott Government handed down the last National Science Priorities which were no longer fit for purpose,” Husic emphasised.
“This new statement continues the legacy of previous efforts, including those of Bob Hawke, who established the first national Chief Scientist and The National Science and Technology Council 35 years ago.”
Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley, led an extensive consultation process to develop these priorities, engaging with a broad cross-section of the Australian community, including those within the scientific, research, and industry sectors.
“I found a remarkable consensus among the Australians I met around the country during the national conversation to develop these priorities,” Dr Foley said.
“It’s fantastic to know that Australians share this ambition for the country we want to be – one that protects our unique environment, moves quickly to clean energy, and maintains prosperity while ensuring everyone has access to advanced healthcare and protecting our democracy.”
The updated framework includes five National Science and Research Priorities that will guide future government, university, and private sector efforts:
- Transitioning to a net zero future – Emphasising the development and adoption of next-generation technologies, particularly in clean energy and storage, advanced materials, AI, quantum, and robotics.
- Supporting healthy and thriving communities – Ensuring that more Australians can enjoy healthier lives from birth into old age.
- Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems – Empowering Indigenous communities to have a more significant say in research that affects them.
- Protecting and restoring Australia’s environment – Mitigating the impacts of climate change and protecting biodiversity, landscapes, and ecosystems.
- Building a secure and resilient nation – Strengthening democratic institutions while addressing economic, social, geopolitical, defence, and national security challenges.
“Science is at the heart of almost every aspect of our lives, and is especially important as we tackle today’s challenges,” Dr Foley added.
“These priorities are a great starting point, and I hope we can come together as a science and research community with industry and government to bring them to life.”
The new National Science Statement and National Science and Research Priorities are now available for public access, providing a roadmap for how science will drive Australia’s future.
