The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has called for a laser focus on decarbonising high-emitting sectors and building Australia into a nation of technology innovators. 

In a submission on Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities, ATSE highlights the need for a mission-focused approach, applying science to the most pressing challenges such as bringing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, providing healthcare for an ageing population, and restoring sovereign capability and supply chain resilience. 

ATSE states that there are critical opportunities to be harnessed in advanced manufacturing, minerals, agriculture, water, health, infrastructure, green energy and sustainable fuels.  

“Australia is bestowed with globally enviable mineral resources and when combined with technical expertise, there is an opportunity to expand clean, safe, environmentally low impact refining of critical minerals and propel our national renewable technology superpower aspirations,” ATSE President Dr Katherine Woodthorpe AO FTSE said. 

To utilise these opportunities, emerging digital technologies, a strong education system, and a wealth of Traditional Knowledge including within STEM must be focused upon by the Australian Research Council. 

Dr Woodthorpe said an independent review of the research sector to boost government investment in R&D to around 3% of GDP and a concerted uplift in STEM skills will be decisive for Australia to realise the science and research priorities. 

“We already have a heavy reliance on importing engineering skills and an estimated shortfall of at least 50,000 engineers by 2025. Fundamentally, interventions are needed from the school level to lift STEM participation, creating a pipeline for the engineers and scientists of the future,” said Dr Woodthorpe. 

“The National Science and Research Priorities are a golden opportunity to transform Australian-made manufacturing including medical manufacturing, clean energy, electric transportation industries and additive manufacturing as part of a circular economy – to serve our national needs, global export opportunities and environmental sustainability. A win-win-win.” 

Emerging technologies will also be a key enabler for the science and research priorities to be impactful. 

“The digitisation of the economy, including with recent fast-paced innovations in Artificial Intelligence, is needed to keep up with developments globally. There is also a need to build Australia’s digital literacy and the digitally skilled workforce to realise these benefits,” said Dr Woodthorpe. 

“It is critical to weave Australian science and research into the fabric of government decision-making in order to deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits for every Australian.” 

Eliza Sayon

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Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

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