For aPDF of this media release,click here.

14 October 2014

Australia’s Chief Scientist Professor Ian Chubb has welcomed the Government’s announcement of the Commonwealth Science Council and $12 million investment in STEM education.

Professor Chubb said the Council offers the opportunity for Australia to develop a strategic and whole-of-government approach to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“This is about improving the impact, focus and prioritisation of Australia’s investment in science and research.

“Our national strengths, our future needs, our comparative advantages and our shared ambitions must connect. That requires us to improve the way we go about our science: our basic support for science and what it needs to flourish, along with the connections between government, research organisations, universities and business.”

Professor Chubb acknowledged the complementary focus on, and investment in, science education and science-industry collaboration in the Industry Innovation and Competitiveness agenda.

“As a nation we must ensure that all Australians can share in the opportunities created by STEM, in the classroom to the workforce to daily life.

“The Commonwealth Science Council can help provide the strategic thinking and direction that a national transformation truly demands. We must work together, guided by the evidence and focused on the goal – a stronger Australia for which quality in all aspects of STEM will be a critical element.”

Professor Chubb thanked the Council members for agreeing to contribute their expertise to this important discussion.

“I’m pleased to note that the Government will consider several specific proposals including those raised in our call for a strategy Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics: Australia’s Future at the Science Council.

“I look forward to working with Council members and Ministers on the opportunities and challenges ahead.”

Media enquiries: Mick Bunworth 02 6102 8179 or 0410 029 407 Mick.Bunworth@chiefscientist.gov.au