Draft National Science and Research Priorities released

Australia’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources is in the process of revitalising the National Science and Research Priorities and National Science Statement, in order to shape a long-term vision for the Australian science system. This process is intended to re-energise conversations across the Australian science and research sector.

Back in February, the department initiated a conversation asking all Australians to help identify the priorities that will best deliver social, economic and environmental benefits for our country. With the first round of consultations having closed in April, the draft priorities have now been released and the department is seeking more feedback to help refine the draft priorities and inform the statement.

The priorities have four core aims:

• Ensuring a net zero future and protecting Australia’s biodiversity.
• Supporting healthy and thriving communities.
• Enabling a productive and innovative economy.
• Building a stronger, more resilient nation.
   

The department would like to hear:

• how well the draft priorities reflect the key challenges and opportunities for Australia;
• how governments and the science and research sector can best work with First Nations people to build a system that recognises and values First Nations knowledge and knowledge systems;
• how further refinement can be undertaken; and
• how the priorities could be implemented.
   

This round of feedback, which is set to run until 29 September, will help shape the final form of Australia’s refreshed priorities and statement. The priorities will be finalised and published once consultation closes.

To read the draft priorities and have your say, visit https://consult.industry.gov.au/sciencepriorities2.

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