Science & Technology Australia congratulates Sussan Ley on her appointment as the new Shadow Minister for Industry and Paul Fletcher as Shadow Minister for Science, along with all MPs and Senators appointed to the Opposition frontbench.
In the new line-up, the Deputy Opposition Leader became Shadow Minister for Industry, Skills & Training, Women and Small & Family Business.
Former Communications Minister Paul Fletcher became Shadow Minister for Science, the Digital Economy and Government Services.
Science & Technology Australia Chief Executive Officer Misha Schubert said the STEM community welcomed the Deputy Opposition Leader to the industry portfolio and the former Communications Minister to the science portfolio.
“In the industry portfolio, we look forward to working with Shadow Minister Ley on industry development opportunities for Australia,” she said.
“It’s terrific she will have responsibilities for both industry and women, because unless we are drawing on our full talent pool as a nation, Australia will be missing out on some of the best talent.”
“Paul Fletcher has a longstanding passion for science and technology, including in his past Ministerial roles in communications, infrastructure and cities,” she said.
“He also brings deep insight about the importance of STEM fields from his career before politics with a major telecommunications company and STEM employer.”
“In this strongly multi-partisan portfolio, we look forward to working with the Government, Opposition and the crossbenchers to deploy the outstanding STEM expertise in this country to strengthen our economy and communities.”
“We also thank former Science and Technology Minister Melissa Price for her powerful advocacy in the portfolio, including her support for STA’S groundbreaking flagship programs Superstars of STEM program and Science meets Parliament.”
Science & Technology Australia is the nation’s peak body representing more than 90,000 scientists and technologists around Australia from more than 90 member organisations.
Media contact: Martyn Pearce, STA: 0432 606 828
