AsianScientist (Mar. 20, 2012) – The Australian Academy of Science has strongly urged the government to invest in science to ensure Australia remains internationally competitive and relevant in the ‘Asian Century.’
In a submission to the Australia in the Asian Century white paper being developed for the government by Dr. Ken Henry, the Academy has outlined its plan to ensure Australia’s place on the world stage into the future.
“We are already a decade into the Asian century, and Australia has a rapidly closing window in which to effectively engage with our Asian neighbors, while maintaining and strengthening our historic links with Europe and North America,” said Academy President Professor Suzanne Cory.
The Academy proposes an integrated international science program amounting to AU$250 million over the next 10 years – a strategic investment equivalent to just one quarter of one percent of total Australian Government spending on science, research, and innovation, that will ensure responsible research spending.
Other recommendations include creating a national advisory board for international science collaboration and a Commonwealth science secretariat as an adjunct to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), as well as fostering an Asia-Pacific science community.
“If we wish to build upon Australia’s very fruitful investment in science during the last century, and maximize our advantages in the Asian century, the white paper must carefully consider these recommendations,” said Professor Cory.
The submission’s recommendations are amongst a range of ideas to be discussed at a special public forum with Australia’s newest Nobel Laureate and Academy Fellow, Professor Brian Schmidt, in Melbourne on Friday, March 30.
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Source: Australian Academy of Science.
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