Minister launches important photonics publications

Two important reports highlighting the key role of photonics to Australia's economic future have been launched by the Minister for Communications, IT and the Arts, Senator Richard Alston.

Photonics in Australia - An Illuminating Future and Photonics: Industry Overview 2001 were produced by the Photonics Industry Forum, with funding from Invest Australia, the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources and the support of Redfern Photonics.

Photonics in Australia profiles the strengths of the Australian photonics industry, lists companies, their capabilities and activities, and includes a list of relevant Federal Government programs.

Photonics: Industry Overview 2001 is an update of the 1998 international photonics benchmarking mission report. It examines the present state of the photonics industry and identifies what changes have occurred in the local market against the backdrop of quite dramatic fluctuations in the global photonics markets.

The Photonics Industry Forum is chaired by The Hon Tony Staley. "The launch by the Minister of these publications is an important milestone in the Photonics Industry Forum's efforts to encourage greater industry collaboration and communication," said Mr Staley.

"We are delighted that the Minister has shown his strong support for this important emerging technology sector. The Photonics Industry Forum is keen to continue to work closely with government to identify opportunities for the industry," Mr Staley also stated.