Science & Technology Australia (STA) has welcomed the reappointment of key Ministers to the Federal Cabinet following the federal election.
In particular, the return of the Hon Karen Andrews MP as Minister for Industry, Science and Technology; the Hon Dan Tehan MP as Minister for Education; the Hon Greg Hunt MP as Minister for Health; and Senator the Hon Michaela Cash as Minister for Skills and Vocational Education.
President of STA, Professor Emma Johnston AO, said the breadth of relevant experience in the ministry, matched with consistency of leadership, would serve Australia well.
“We welcome the announcement of the Morrison Ministry, and in particular the return of Karen Andrews as the Science and Technology Minister. This is an opportunity to achieve the stability our sector has been looking for, and we hope this signals a strategic and whole-of-government approach to empowering science and technology to build a strong future for Australia,” Professor Johnston said.
“Minister Andrews has engaged meaningfully with scientists and technologists for many years as co-convenor of the Parliamentary Friends of Science, and recently as Minister: and STA looks forward to continuing to work with her office as we represent tens of thousands of STEM professionals.”
Professor Johnston said the Coalition had begun some important projects in government and the sector was looking to them to continue this good work.
“We saw bold investment in research infrastructure, a visionary National Science Statement, and leadership in gender equity from the Coalition Government,” she said.
“Now we hope the focus turns to forming a detailed whole-of-government plan for STEM; a plan that prioritises stronger government and business investment, attractive STEM education programs, and secure employment for all STEM professionals.”
She said the solutions sector stood ready to play an active part in shaping a better nation for all Australians.
“We face many challenges as a community, and we are keen to work with all members of the new Cabinet to achieve evidence based policy focused on improving our health, wealth and wellbeing.”
“With a well-supported Australian science and technology sector we can solve many current problems and provide social, environmental and economic dividends to the nation.”
