AAS lists priorities for government

President of the Australian Academy of Science, Professor Brian Anderson, said "This year, political parties and business and community groups have come to a remarkable degree of agreement on the need to promote science and education in Australia for the economic and social benefits that they bring."

"Indeed, many of us in the science community see that education, health and scientific development must be universal if humankind is to prosper. With jitters in the global economy and security questions around the world, Australia needs to invest in something it can be confident will build a better nation. Education means jobs for young people in knowledge-based industries. Science means innovation for those industries."

"For example, there are disturbing signs that the supply of science and mathematics teachers will not meet future demand. At the moment, aspiring teachers studying science pay higher HECS fees than those in the humanities. This deters students from becoming science teachers."

"Enthusiastic, well-trained science and maths teachers are the essential link between bright young people and science-related careers. They encourage students to take up the enabling sciences at school and continue at university."

The AAS outlined priorities for the next government, in terms of building a knowledge economy; raising science and mathematics education and awareness; promoting private investment in research and development; developing major national research facilities; and national research priorities.