The Abbott Government is developing a new science-based, science-led research and development plan for Australia’s capstone projects, and a new technology project plan that aims to address some of the key challenges facing the nation’s science and technology sector.
The new plans, released by Prime Minister Tony Abbott, include a major overhaul of the way Australia’s scientific research is conducted, including the removal of the National Research Council (NRC) and the National Council for Science and Technology (NCST), and the re-design of the Australian Research Council’s scientific assessment system, which has been the backbone of Australian science for more than 100 years.
“The government’s new Capstone Project Plan sets out our vision for science, technology and innovation in Australia,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
“This is a major breakthrough for the science sector and a major step towards making Australia more competitive internationally.”
Key points:A capstone proposal, which is expected to be released in early 2019, would see the removal and re-distribution of the NRC and the NCSTThe NRC will be replaced by a new body with more funding for the Australian National Research CentreThe NSC is also being replaced with a new government body with an expanded role for scientists and academicsThe government has announced that it would begin the process of reforming the National Science and Innovation Commission, which was formed in 2006 to advise the Prime Ministers Office on scientific research.
The capstone is set to be announced in mid-2020, with the first phase expected to begin in 2021.
The Capstone proposal would see Australia’s research infrastructure be restructured, with a focus on collaboration, transparency and transparency for scientists.
“Australia’s science is an integral part of the national fabric and our nation’s innovation economy is a key part of that fabric,” the statement said.
“We are committed to delivering an innovation-driven, science and research-driven economy, one that fosters growth, employment and jobs and is in the best interest of all Australians.”
Topics:science-and-technology,science-fiction-fiction,government-and australia
