Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities

Australia’s National Science and Research Priorities policy is a forward-looking strategy developed by the Australian Government to address the nation’s most pressing challenges and seize emerging opportunities through science and research. Recognising the critical role that research and innovation play in economic growth, societal well-being, and environmental sustainability, the policy sets the stage for a decade of strategic action and investment.

The purpose of this policy is to align Australia’s scientific and research capabilities with the needs and aspirations of its people. By addressing challenges such as climate change, health inequities, and technological innovation, the policy seeks to create a framework that:

• Advances Australia’s position as a global leader in research and innovation.
• Drives economic growth through high-value industries and cutting-edge technologies.
• Protects and enhances the health, security, and well-being of its communities.
• Leverages the unique knowledge systems of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Promotes resilience in the face of global and national disruptions.

The strategy underscores the importance of science and research in fostering Australia’s economic growth, social cohesion, and national interest. It highlights Australia’s unique strengths, including its diverse and multicultural society, geopolitical stability, and world-class education and research infrastructure. The strategy positions science and research as essential tools for navigating complex challenges such as transitioning to a net zero economy, addressing the needs of an ageing population, and adapting to climate change.

Delivering on national science and research priorities

The strategy introduces five key priorities designed to guide Australian science and research efforts:

1. Transitioning to a net zero future
2. Supporting healthy and thriving communities
3. Elevating aboriginal and torres strait islander knowledge systems
4. Protecting and restoring australia’s environment
5. Building a secure and resilient nation

These priorities are challenge-based and aim to transcend disciplinary, sectoral, and knowledge-system boundaries, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Guiding principles for the strategy

The strategy is underpinned by seven guiding principles that ensure its relevance and impact:

• Be community-informed: Extensive public consultation informed the priorities, including written submissions, roundtables, and workshops.
• Be ambitious and purpose-driven: The priorities address significant challenges and opportunities for the next decade.
• Be evidence-based: Decisions are rooted in expert advice, community input, and alignment with existing government priorities.
• Be enduring and responsive: The strategy includes a ten-year horizon, with flexibility to adapt to new developments.
• Be relevant: Priorities will be reviewed every five years to ensure alignment with emerging needs and opportunities.
• Be focused: The strategy concentrates on areas where science and research can have the most significant impact.
• Inform investments: The priorities guide government policy and investments, while allowing for diverse approaches.

Detailed exploration of the priorities

1. Transitioning to a net zero future: This priority focuses on decarbonizing energy systems, transitioning to a circular economy, and advancing renewable energy technologies. It emphasises workforce adaptability, collaboration with indigenous communities, and the development of advanced materials and processes.
2. Supporting healthy and thriving communities: This includes developing new treatments, improving preventive healthcare, and addressing health inequities. The strategy highlights the role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health concepts and integrating diverse determinants of health.
3. Elevating Aboriginal and torres strait islander knowledge systems: The goal is to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into research and policy while ensuring cultural safety and intellectual property protection. Collaboration and leadership from indigenous communities are prioritised.
4. Protecting and restoring Australia’s environment: The strategy aims to address climate change impacts, restore biodiversity, and promote sustainable practices. Partnerships with indigenous communities and the use of innovative monitoring tools are essential components.
5. Building a secure and resilient nation: Efforts focus on enhancing disaster preparedness, securing critical infrastructure, and addressing cyber threats. The strategy also seeks to counter misinformation and strengthen democratic institutions.

Critical research needs

For each priority, the strategy identifies specific research needs, such as developing new energy technologies, advancing precision medicine, and improving environmental monitoring systems. These research goals aim to address knowledge gaps and deliver significant societal benefits over the next five to ten years.