Science peak body calls for culture change

The proposed National Science Statement represents an opportunity for Australia to change its cultural relationship with science, according to peak body Science and Technology Australia.

In its submission to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources’ consultation into the proposed statement and Australia’s National Science Priorities, the peak body said the proposal represents a chance to put science at the heart of Australia’s self image.

Science and Technology Australia CEO Misha Schubert said the body strongly supports adopting a grand challenge model to solve Australia’s biggest and most complex challenges.

“There is an historic opportunity with these major national statements to set ourselves a bold ambition to change Australia’s cultural relationship with science,” she said. “We’d love to see this work put science and technology front-and-centre in the national consciousness as the drivers of every advance on which Australian jobs, economic growth, health and wellbeing rely.”

Such an approach would draw together the focus of the research community, industry, policymakers and Australian society, Schubert said.

“Australia is a star performer in science — with world-leading science researchers, infrastructure and game-changing science innovation,” she said. “But this science strength isn’t something most Australians would readily cite as among our best-known national traits.”

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