Thank you, Science Minister Ed Husic

The Australian Academy of Science thanks Ed Husic for his service and for advancing science and industry in Australia.

“Minister Husic’s knowledge, commitment and enthusiasm for science and technology was rare. He understood its role in the re-invigoration of the Australian economy and in global diplomacy,” said Professor Chennupati Jagadish, President of the Academy.

“His commitment to the portfolio was clear and unwavering, achieving significant impact in three years.

“Minister Husic has laid the groundwork for the long-term reforms needed to structure and position R&D as a significant driver of the economy. He also introduced important measures to remove barriers to participation in science, especially among under-represented groups.

“Commissioning the Strategic Examination of R&D – the most comprehensive review of the R&D system in decades – was essential and will position R&D in Australia to be a key driver of productivity, economic diversity and international competitiveness.

“Australia can and must be positioned in the global technological race and the review lays the path to achieve this.”

Among Minister Husic’s many achievements, the Academy acknowledges his leadership in:

• establishing the National Reconstruction Fund
• backing Australia’s leading role in quantum technology
• enhancing Asia and Pacific scientific engagement through the establishment of the International Science Council’s Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific
• delivering the Pathways to Diversity in STEM review
• boosting Australia’s AI capabilities
• delivering the National Battery Strategy
• revitalising the National Science and Research Priorities
• focusing and delivering regional collaboration via the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund
• helping establish the Future Made in Australia framework

“The Academy wishes Minister Husic well and urges the next Minister for Science and Industry to harness the opportunities Australia has to compete in the global scientific and technological race, especially as we face a complex geopolitical environment,” said Professor Jagadish.