Budget helps strengthen Aust scientific leadership in Asia–Pacific

The Australian Academy of Science will lead a new regional presence coordinating scientific engagement in the Asia–Pacific, thanks to a six-year, $10.3 million investment from the Australian Government as announced in the 2022–23 federal Budget.

Academy President Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC has welcomed the government’s strategic commitment to establish the International Science Council (ISC) Asia–Pacific regional presence at the Academy, saying the investment enables Australia to leverage its standing as a science and research leader and engage in strategic science diplomacy in our region and globally.

Jagadish said hosting the ISC’s Asia–Pacific regional presence in Australia would significantly boost Australia’s scientific leadership in the Asia–Pacific region, deepen engagement across our region and enable greater science outcomes that benefit all. The ISC Asia–Pacific regional presence will begin operation in 2023.

“It will also allow Australia to have greater input into global policy issues, extend its international influence through science diplomacy and provide access to a high-level network of global science leaders,” Jagadish said.

“Changes to the regional geopolitical landscape, climate change, global security and technology are among the issues currently shaping Australia’s economy and society.

“An opportunity to enable meaningful regional engagement and to align activities with international science efforts will help us navigate these issues strategically and with impact.”

ISC President Sir Peter Gluckman said the Academy had a long track record of successfully managing international engagements and in representing Australia’s interests at the ISC since the Academy’s inception in 1954.

“The Asia–Pacific focal point is central to translating the ISC’s global vision into actions tailored to meet the unique needs of the Asia–Pacific region,” Gluckman said.

“The Australian Academy of Science is a very active and engaged member of the ISC. As host of this new branch, the Academy is well placed to strengthen partnerships across the region and to advance science as a global public good.

“The ISC is grateful for the Australian Government’s leadership and investment in building scientific cooperation in the region.”

Jagadish said the Asia–Pacific region is a key focal point of the Academy’s international engagements and Australian diplomatic efforts.

“I wish to warmly thank the Academy of Sciences Malaysia for the valuable work undertaken in maintaining the Asia–Pacific regional office over previous years,” he said.

“We look forward to fostering engagement with the diverse nations across the Asia–Pacific region and working on our shared goal of championing science as a global public good.”

Jagadish has also acknowledged several other Budget investments that rely upon science to advance Australian economic and social prosperity. These include:

• The establishment of the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund with seven key priorities in renewables and low emissions, medical science, value-adding resources, enabling capabilities, transport, defence and agriculture, fisheries, food and fibre.
• Confirmation of the government’s intention to establish an Australian Centre for Disease Control.
• $105.2 million to support First Nations people to respond to climate change in their communities.
• Renewal of Australia’s climate policy ambition through greater investment in the Climate Change Authority, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, net zero and negative emissions, and major investments in Australia’s renewable energy systems.
• $2.9 million for the National Science and Technology Council’s provision of science and technology advice to support evidence-informed decision-making and independent science advice to government.
• A down payment on meeting Australia’s responsibility to protect our natural biodiversity including support for preventing species extinction, protecting the Great Barrier Reef and advancing environmental law reform.
• 20,000 new university places for under-represented students, the Startup Year Program and establishing the Australian Universities Accord.
• $5.8 million for the Women in STEM and Entrepreneurship program and the independent review into government programs to ensure they support greater diversity in Australia’s science and technology sectors.
• $10 million for Questacon to help inspire the next generation of young people to consider STEM careers.
   

Jagadish said the Academy looks forward to “working with the Australian Government to map a pathway that repositions Australian science to advance national prosperity and global competitiveness”.

Image credit: iStock.com/RomoloTavani

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