Government names ‘experts’ to chart course for enabling technologies

The federal government has named the 21-strong expert advisory panel who will help chart the direction of its $38.2 million National Enabling Technologies Strategy.

Launched in February this year, the NETS was created with the aim of identifying and nurturing key technologies deemed essential for Australia’s future.

“New technologies will bring us new industries, export opportunities and jobs,” said federal Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr, who identified biotech and nanotechnology as two areas offering great promise.

“They also have the potential to provide breakthrough medicines, faster computers and purer water.”

But he cautioned that with new technologies, comes new risks.

“These experts will help us understand any risks and ensure they are managed appropriately.”

The panel consists of an eight-member Expert Forum and a thirteen member Stakeholder Advisory Council.

The Stakeholder Advisory Council brings together representatives from across Australia’s private sector, unions, non-government, industry, science and research who the government is hoping will provide it with informed direction regarding a wide range of ‘enabling technologies’. The Expert Forum includes technology specialists, researchers and industry representatives who will identify new and converging technologies and highlight any potential implications for Australia.

“I am confident that with the support of the experts, the Government can effectively implement the National Enabling Technologies Strategy and ensure the benefits of new technologies can flow to the community,” Senator Karr said. Chair of the expert forum is Professor Ron Johnston, founder and executive director of the Australian Centre for Innovation, and author of the influential 1996 study Matching Science and Technology to Future Needs by the Australian Science and Technology Council (ASTEC).