The Australian Academy of Science has strongly urged the Government to invest in science to ensure Australia remains internationally competitive and relevant in the ‘Asian Century’.
In a submission to the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper being developed for Government by Dr Ken Henry, the Academy has outlined its plan to ensure Australia’s place on the world stage into the future.
“We are already a decade into the Asian Century, and Australia has a rapidly closing window in which to effectively engage with our Asian neighbours, while maintaining and strengthening our historic links with Europe and North America,” said Academy President Professor Suzanne Cory.
The Academy proposes an integrated international science program amounting to $250 million over the next 10 years – a strategic investment equivalent to just one quarter of one per cent of total Australian Government spending on science, research and innovation, that will ensure responsible research spending.
Other recommendations include creating a national advisory board for international science collaboration and a Commonwealth science secretariat as an adjunct to CHOGM, as well as fostering an Asia-Pacific science community.
“If we wish to build upon Australia’s very fruitful investment in science during the last century, and maximise our advantages in the Asian Century, the White Paper must carefully consider these recommendations,” said Professor Cory.
The submission’s recommendations are amongst a range of ideas to be discussed at a special public forum with Australia’s newest Nobel Laureate and Academy Fellow, Professor Brian Schmidt, in Melbourne on Friday 30 March.
Exploring Australia’s place in international science, the forum will also feature the Academy’s Foreign Secretary, Professor Andrew Holmes. It will be moderated by ABC Science broadcaster, Robyn Williams, who was elected to the Academy in 1993 for his outstanding contribution to science communication.
The Academy’s submission to Australia in the Asian Century White Paper is available here http://asiancentury.dpmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/public-submissions/australian-academy-of-science.pdf
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