The coalition is set to review the policy that applies to external earnings of science agencies.
Senator Minchin, Minister of Industry and Science, said the current policy required research agencies such as the CSIRO to earn a certain percentage of their income from commercial sources.
Senator Minchin said that had been effective in encouraging agencies to be more outward looking. But it might now be hampering more flexible commercialisation strategies.
The review will be conducted by Robin Batterham, chief scientist, who will report by 31 January 2002. Senator Minchin said Dr Batterham would examine alternative options for performance measurement.
