Phenomics Australia contributes to the Senate Inquiry into Funding and Resourcing for the CSIRO

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Phenomics Australia CEO, Prof. Michael Dobbie, provided evidence during the Senate Inquiry into Funding and Resourcing for the CSIRO alongside colleagues from Science & Technology Australia (STA) and the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences & Engineering (ATSE).

On Friday, 13th of March, they provided evidence highlighting CSIRO’s critical role as Australia’s national science agency in addressing major national challenges. They also emphasised that stable, long-term funding is essential for Australia to fully realise the benefits of this unique national institution. In addition, they offered detailed input on rising costs associated with maintaining and upgrading research infrastructure.

Evidence provided supported the following recommendations:

  • Adopt an investor mindset – recognise that funding CSIRO, STEM research and research infrastructure is patient capital, invested in Australia’s sovereign capability.
  • Develop a new indexation rate for research funding that reflects the true rising cost of doing research.
  • Regularly review appropriations to ensure research agencies can sustain their operations, retain talented people, and maintain world-class infrastructure.

Images credit: STA
“Thank you, STA, for your strong and constant advocacy for the impact of Australian science and for today's opportunity to provide evidence supporting CSIRO's critical role as Australia's science agency solving national challenges.”
Prof. Michael Dobbie

The recording of the day’s Senate Economics References Committee hearing of 13 March 2026 can be viewed at:

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