Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems is one of five key priorities in a new national science framework released today.
Federal Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said the new priorities aimed to place science at the forefront of industrial transformation.
“For the first time, the updated framework elevates Indigenous knowledge systems. It will also better prepare the nation to face future pandemics, adapt to a changing climate and respond to rapid developments in artificial intelligence and automation,” Minister Husic said.
He said Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley led a nationwide consultation process, speaking to people across science, research and industry to shape the priorities.
Minister Husic said under a more focussed framework, there were five National Science and Research Priorities that would guide government, university and private sector efforts:
- Transitioning to a net zero future: To develop and adopt next generation technologies, particularly in clean energy and storage, advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum and robotics.
- Supporting healthy and thriving communities: So more Australians can enjoy healthier lives from birth well into old age.
- Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems: To empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people particularly to have more of a say in advancing research that affects them.
- Protecting and restoring Australia’s environment: To mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect our biodiversity, diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
- Building a secure and resilient nation: To strengthen our democratic institutions while addressing economic, social, geopolitical, defence and national security challenges.
He said a new National Science Statement listed five imperatives that would shape Australian science investment over the next decade:
- Australian scientists, science institutions, and infrastructure shaping Australia’s science future.
- Science at the centre of Australian industry.
- A diverse, skilled workforce to underpin the translation of science into new industries.
- Embracing science to drive Australia’s regional and global interests.
- A science system prepared for future challenges.
Dr Foley said she found consensus among Australians during the consultation process.
“It’s fantastic to know that Australians share this ambition for the country we want to be – one that protects our unique environment, moves quickly to clean energy in a way that creates new industries and maintains prosperity, ensures everyone has access to advanced healthcare no matter where they live, and protects the strength of our democracy.
“Australians also want Indigenous knowledge and knowledge systems at the centre of all we do. “
Explore the National Science Statement and the National Science and Research Priorities.
