Joint media release with the Prime Minister, the Hon Scott Morrison MP

Australia’s technology and education future is the focus at the first meeting of the new National Science and Technology Council, held in Sydney.
 
Chaired by the Prime Minister, the National Science and Technology Council builds on the work of the former Commonwealth Science Council, providing independent advice to Government on key science issues like new technologies, health and education.
 
Science and technology are critical to Australia’s future - they are major pillars of our economy and our quality of life. For Australians’ jobs, security and health, we need these sectors to continue to thrive.

The Council’s first meeting will consider the opportunities and challenges of Artificial Intelligence, STEM education, outcomes of the Government’s $1.9 billion research infrastructure investment and an ambitious Council work program to provide expert advice and ensure deeper engagement between Government and the science sector.

The Liberal National Government recognises the importance of science, research and technology in improving the competitiveness of Australian businesses and driving further local job creation, that’s why we have invested $1.5 billion more into our science agencies than Labor when they were last in government.
 
We invested $2.4 billion in science and technology in the 2018/19 Budget and we are increasing funding to our world-class research agencies like CSIRO over the next four years. This builds on our regular annual investment of around $10 billion in science, research and innovation.

Our Government’s plan for a stronger economy means we can guarantee the funding for Australia’s science and technology sectors and ensure they continue growing and creating more jobs.

The Council forms part of our plan to further grow these sectors.
 
Further details about the Council, including its membership, is available at www.chiefscientist.gov.au/national-science-and-technology-council/

Media contacts:

Prime Minister's office 02 6277 7700

Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070