Australia’s science and technology peak body has welcomed the new shadow ministry announced by Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese over the weekend.
President of Science & Technology Australia, Professor Emma Johnston AO, said the sector looked forward to working with Shadow Ministers across multiple portfolios relevant to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
“We welcome the new Shadow Minister for Employment and Industry, Science, Small and Family Business, Brendan O’Connor MP; and Shadow Minister for Innovation, Technology and the Future of Work, Clare O’Neil MP,” Professor Johnston said.
“Both will bring a breadth of experience to the roles, and we hope to engage with them to discuss how to support the solutions sector to build a strong future for Australia.”
She said the Opposition had given science, technology and research due prominence in their shadow ministry.
“We are also happy to see the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP retain the portfolio of Education, the Hon Mark Butler MP return to the climate and energy portfolio, and we congratulate the co-convenor of the Parliamentary Friends of Science, the Hon Richard Marles MP, who becomes Deputy Leader in the House of Representatives,” Professor Johnston said.
“STA serves as a conduit between science, technology, government and decision makers, and our members stand ready to help the Parliament achieve better health, wealth and wellbeing for all Australians.”
She said more than 75,000 STA members hoped the opposition would continue with an ambitious policy platform for STEM and research that is informed by consultation with Australia’s scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians.
“To facilitate this, we will be making representations in person through our numerous events and initiatives, including Science meets Parliament, the STEM Ambassador Program and the Parliamentary Friends of Science.”
