Media releases
MATHS REVIEW LAUNCHED – CALL FOR NEW RESEARCH CENTRES
23 January 1996
A new review of the mathematical sciences in Australia was launched today (Tuesday) at the Australian Academy of Science by Sir Gustav Nossal, President of the Academy.
Two of its major recommendations call for the establishment of national research centres for basic and applied research in the mathematical sciences.
'Mathematics is used everywhere. As a pervasive part of industrial and economic life, it's vital to Australia's economic competitiveness,' Sir Gustav said. 'Australia needs to build on its existing skills in this area if it is to achieve the APEC-readiness the Prime Minister described in launching the Innovation Statement.'
One major feature revealed during the 18 month Review was the penetration of the mathematical sciences into other disciplines. The boundaries between the mathematical sciences and fields such as engineering, physics and economics are blurred and shifting.
'Topics that were once the exclusive realm of pure mathematicians are now routinely used in important applications. However, Australian industry can make more use of the solutions that mathematical sciences can provide.'
'That is behind the recommendation to create a Cooperative Research Centre to develop generic mathematical tools to meet the needs of industry', Sir Gustav said.
Advances in computer hardware and software allow industrial designers to use simulation methods based on mathematics to develop new products and get them to market more quickly.
'New products are developed in a one stage process, rather than the previous laborious process of design-prototype-test-modify-retest. Ideas can be developed and tested under all sorts of conceivable conditions while only existing as an idea on screen,' said Dr Noel Barton, Executive Officer and Editor for the Strategic Review.
Simulation models also enable researchers to play the 'what if?' game in making important decisions.
'The Electricity Trust of South Australia used this method to identify and manage bushfire risks,' Dr Barton said.
CSIRO developed a risk assessment model for ETSA to predict which cables in high risk areas should be bundled together and insulated. The model considered the maintenance state of the powerline, the likelihood of fire spreading, and the damage a fire would cause.
This information can now be used in the field by engineers to help them make on the spot decisions about which cables to work on. Expected benefits will exceed $250 million.
'Mathematical Sciences: Adding to Australia' was commissioned by the Australian Research Council and carried out by the National Committee for Mathematics of the Australian Academy of Science. It contains four major findings and 20 recommendations.
Other speakers at the launch will be Professor Max Brennan (Chair of the Australian Research Council), Professor Ian Sloan (Chair of the National Committee for Mathematics), Ms Jan Thomas (President of the Australian Mathematical Sciences Council), and Dr Michael Adena (Managing Director, Intstat Australia).
Media are invited to attend the launch of 'Mathematical Sciences: Adding to Australia' at the Australian Academy of Science by Sir Gustav Nossal, at 3 pm on Tuesday, 23 January.
