Science & Technology Australia welcomes new Ministerial appointments

Science & Technology Australia, the peak body representing 68,000 scientists and technologists welcomes the appointment of Senator Chris Evans as Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Science and Research; and Greg Combet as Minister for Industry and Innovation.

“To provide the capability that will drive our nation’s economic future and international competiveness, Minister Evans will have to address the crippling skills shortage facing the science, engineering and mathematics sectors, said Professor Michael Holland, President, STA.

Challenges faced by Chris Evans include lifting R&D expenditure to at least the OECD average; enabling effective engagement with the international scientific community; fostering interdisciplinary approaches and cross-sector collaboration; and ensuring that scientific research is systematically used to inform Government policies.

“STA is especially pleased to see the breadth and depth of the portfolio for Minister Evans. The integration of the education, skills and research portfolios can only benefit Australia.”

“Senator Evans has demonstrated a strong interest science and research and has been an active participant in Science meets Parliament”.

“It will be important for Minister Evans to consider the skills shortages in science and mathematics when formulating his response to the Base Funding Review Report released last week”.

STA looks forward to working with Ministers Evans and Combet on these important issues.

STA congratulates Senator Kim Carr on his achievements as Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science & Research since 2007.

Media Contact:

Cathy Bryson:   0433 552 274

Released 12 Dec 2011