Science and Technology Australia (STA) has warned of the harm a travel ban would cause scientists and technologists around the world.
The peak science body highlighted that Australian researchers benefit from international collaborations, including with scientists in the United States, and any obstacle could do serious damage to the progress of vital research.
Kylie Walker, CEO of STA, said it was important that Australians encourage freedom for scientists to do their work unimpeded.
“STA supports US scientists, and the Australian scientists who work with them to provide positive outcomes for the economy and benefits in health, technology, communication, the environment and much more,” Ms Walker said.
“Science transcends political and religious beliefs and can provide continuing opportunity for nations to engage in harmonious dialogue and co-existence.”
Ms Walker said a history of sharing resources and minds had led the world in to a time of great advancement, and that maintaining this approach would foster inspirational discoveries.
“Look at any recent scientific work of significance – Gravitational Waves for example – and you will find international collaboration was core to its success,” she said.
“It is an integral way in which societies collaborate.”
