On Monday 12th of August, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources launched Australia’s new National Science and Research priorities which will set the path forward for the next decade. Phenomics Australia welcomes the release of the priorities and the National Science Statement.
After considerable nationwide consultation conducted by Dr Cathy Foley, Australia’s Chief Scientist, the five National Science and Research Priorities that will guide Australia’s advances in science are:
- Transitioning to a net zero future
– to develop and adopt next-generation technologies, particularly in clean energy and storage, advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum and robotics.
- Supporting healthy and thriving communities
– so more Australians can enjoy healthier lives from birth well into old age.
- Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems
– to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people particularly to have more of a say in advancing research that affects them.
- Protecting and restoring Australia’s environment
– to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect our biodiversity, diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
- Building a secure and resilient nation
– to strengthen our democratic institutions while addressing economic, social,
geopolitical, defence and national security challenges.
The new National Science Statement lists five imperatives that will shape Australian science investment over the next decade:
- Australian scientists, science institutions, and infrastructure shaping Australia’s science future.
- Science at the centre of Australian industry.
- A diverse, skilled workforce to underpin the translation of science into new industries.
- Embracing science to drive Australia’s regional and global interests.
- A science system prepared for future challenges.
As part of the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS), Phenomics Australia recognises the importance of infrastructure in shaping Australia’s science future and will strive to continue providing world-class services to researchers. Supported by the National Science Statement, “The government will target strategic investment in science infrastructure and agencies to meet Australia’s future needs.” Phenomics Australia will continue to be integral in advocating and partnering for impact and bettering health through the discovery of gene function.
Phenomics Australia will continue supporting healthy and thriving communities including the need for critical research in therapies that use precision medicine to treat disease and anticipating and responding to future pandemics and infectious disease outbreaks. As a nation, we need science and research to work towards these outcomes and improve physical and mental wellbeing and preventative health through new screening, diagnostic and treatment techniques, and models of care.
“ Phenomics Australia welcomes this announcement and will continue to enable Australia’s research in these priority areas through providing national infrastructure.” Professor Dobbie said.
By Bridget Elliott-Rudder.
