This week I will visit Singapore to strengthen science, research and business links between both our nations, and build closer ties with Southeast Asia.

I will encourage further Australian engagement with the region and promote Australian business, science and research sectors. The Coalition is investing approximately $2.4 billion in growing Australia’s research, science and technology capabilities, as announced in this year’s Budget.

Singapore is a global economic hub, a leading economy in the region, and a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Deeper engagement on science, research and business with overseas partners helps our research sector and opens up more opportunities for Australian companies.

Additionally, I will co-lead a delegation of Australian medtech start-ups looking to tap into Singapore and ASEAN nation markets, launch the James Cook University Tropical Futures Research Institute in Singapore, and attend a roundtable for market-ready start-ups at the Coalition Government’s Landing Pad in Singapore.

At the Good Science = Great Business festival, I will promote Australian science and commercialisation, and I will meet with the chairman of Singapore’s Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), Mr Lim Chuan Poh, to continue exploring possibilities for scientific and commercial partnerships between both countries.

I will also attend a seminar on defence capability to highlight Australian expertise in defence science and discuss opportunities for Australia and Singapore to work together in growing this crucial sector.

The Morrison Coalition Government is working to encourage deeper cooperation between Australia and Singapore in science and research, expand business connections to create new export opportunities for Australian companies and highlight how Australia is boosting the participation of women in STEM.

Media contact: Minister Andrew's office 02 6277 7070