Geoscience in WA Election

Geoscience has High Profile in WA Election

The Australian Geoscience Council welcomes the importance given to geoscience in the Western Australian State election.

Dr David Denham, President of the AGC, said “The Council was pleased with the WA Coalition’s commitment to establish a Resources Institute, to take a leadership role in the development of mining, oil and gas education and research, at the Bentley Technology Park.”

“We need strong government leadership in the science and technology sector to ensure the continuing strength of Australian resource industries. This is particularly important for WA, because more than half of Australia’s mineral and petroleum exploration is carried out in that state.”

“The proposed new Resources Institute, which will include participation from Curtin University, Kalgoorlie School of Mines, Murdoch University, University of WA, CSIRO and industry, offers an excellent opportunity to increase the R & D investment needed for the future.”

He also welcomed the Coalition’s commitment to inject $66 million of new funding to stimulate mineral and petroleum exploration over the next four years, as well as the construction of a new building for the Kalgoorlie/Boulder regional office of the Department of Minerals and Energy.

“The Labor party’s $50 million ‘Innovate WA’ policy is also welcome but it appears that some time will be needed to develop action plans and programs.”

“It is good to see policies from the major political parties that raise public awareness of science and technology in our society. We cannot over-emphasise how important, innovation, science and technology are for our future well-being.”

The Australian Geoscience Council comprises seven Societies and Associations and represents more than 7000 professional geoscientists in Australia.

Australian Geoscience Council Media Release
28-Dec-2002