The 15th meeting of the National Science and Technology Council was held in Canberra on 29 March 2023. The Prime Minister and Chair, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, opened the meeting, and the Minister for Industry and Science and Deputy Chair of the Council, the Hon Ed Husic MP, thanked Council members for their attendance.

The Prime Minister highlighted the centrality of science to the agenda of Government, and the important role that the Council could play in ensuring that science and innovation contribute to inclusive growth in Australia.

The Council’s Executive Officer, Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM, provided an update on the national conversation to revitalise Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities and the National Science Statement. She noted strong consistency in themes emerging from her consultation across the country, and the desire for a multi-disciplinary systems approach to solving national challenges.

Professor Genevieve Bell presented the findings of the recent rapid report on generative artificial intelligence (AI) commissioned by Minister Husic and delivered by the Council in March. Professor Bell shared an overview of recent developments in generative AI, highlighting business models, potential issues with transparency of data sources and ethical considerations. Council members discussed implications for productivity, future jobs, misinformation and regulation. 

Dr Foley led a discussion on the Council’s work plan. The Council identified First Nations science as a future discussion topic, and Australia’s investment in R&D as a proportion of GDP. The Council considered ways of improving the Council’s operating model.

The next Council meeting will be held in mid-2023.