Science Industry Australia objectives for 2002

The SIA's National Council met in Melbourne on 21 February to decide on the association's goals for 2002. The SIA workplan for 2002 has been developed around the theme of 'inform, involve, influence'.

In terms of 'inform': the SIA will continue its weekly newsletter; make special bulletins on specific issues following major announcements affecting the science industry; and, reintroduce its popular product surveys during 2002.

In terms of 'involve': chapter meetings will continue to held on a regular basis during 2002 to identify and address common industry issues and share information; the SIA will also continue its involvement in the development a new national Code of Conduct for Chemical Diversion (expected to be launched in mid 2002); and, organise a small state focused exhibition in Brisbane in late 2002.

In terms of 'influence': the SIA office has been relocated to Canberra and as such, the executive director will ensure that the politicians and policy makers are made aware of the issues facing the science industry in Australia; the SIA will also be pursuing funding opportunities from the federal IT, science and industry portfolios to enable it to further enhance its services to members; and, the SIA will start 'Assist', a one on one helping hand for members who may be experiencing difficulties with a local, state or federal government instrumentality or are having trouble finding out about a particular program or service.