Government Science Policy

PM TARGETS SCIENCE TO ADVANCE AUSTRALIA

The Australian Geoscience Council welcomes the Prime Minister’s announcement today of an increase in government investment in science, technology and innovation.

Dr David Denham, President of the Australian Geoscience Council, said: “This represents an important step to improve the nation’s science and technology infrastructure, and ensure that we have the skills and the capacity to participate in the new high-tech industries that will drive economic development.”

“We need strong government leadership in the science and technology sector to avoid complete domination by overseas multinationals, and to ensure that Australia is recognised as much more than a country that trains good athletes and provides cheap, relaxing vacations.”

“The AGC particularly supports the government’s plans to increase its commitment to the Australian Research Council. Without an appropriate infrastructure to encourage high quality basic research, the sustainability of our economy will be very uncertain.”

“We are pleased with the increased support for the Cooperative Research Centre Program. This has been an excellent scheme for encouraging interaction between researchers in industry, government and the universities, and the AGC has argued consistently for the CRC Program to be expanded so that the smaller cutting-edge companies can participate.”

Perhaps the most important aspect of the Prime Minister’s announcement is that it raises public awareness of the importance of science and technology in our society. We need a cultural change to increase awareness of innovation, science and technology, as vital components for our future well-being. The PM’s announcement today makes a significant contribution to this issue.”

Even so Dr Denham said, “There are still important issues needing attention in the geoscience sector:

	The Australian Geological Survey Organisation needs to be reconstituted to include the land and water components that were removed after the 1998 election. A national geoscience institution that does not include programs in land degradation and ground water is not providing the nation with the best value for money.
	The Commonwealth should increase its investment in providing geoscience information at affordable prices using online supply mechanisms – the States and the NT cannot be expected to do everything. The national government should recognise and maintain its national role in the Geosciences.”

For interview or further information contact: Dr David Denham, Tel: 02 6295 3014