The Australian Government has released the National Research Infrastructure Roadmap, which articulates the research infrastructure priorities that are aimed at strengthening the future of Australian research.
The Roadmap focuses on nine areas: digital data and e-research platforms, platforms for humanities arts and social sciences, characterisation (techniques for understanding the properties of materials), advanced fabrication and manufacturing, advanced physics and astronomy, earth and environmental systems, biosecurity, and complex biology.
“This Roadmap represents a comprehensive and strong vision for major research infrastructure, which is vital for the future of science and technology in Australia,” said Kylie Walker, CEO of Science & Technology Australia.
“Dr Alan Finkel and the Expert Working Group are to be commended for their holistic approach and robust recommendations.”
“Science & Technology Australia is pleased that the report has incorporated our suggestions for supporting important research infrastructure with ongoing operational funding and training for expert operational staff, providing timely and merit-based access for important research, and ensuring Australian access to key international infrastructure.
Ms Walker said Australia must act on the Roadmap as quickly as possible.
“With bold and decisive leadership and strong strategic investment in outstanding research infrastructure, Australia has the opportunity to consolidate its position as a world-class driver of scientific and technological discovery and invention,” Ms Walker said.
“We look forward to the Government’s response to this Roadmap and urge it to move as quickly as possible to announce its plan to fund Australia’s research infrastructure.”
To find out more, you can view the full Roadmap at the Department of Education’s website or read the associated media release from the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science.
