Perth hosts meeting of Chief Scientists

Australia’s Chief Scientist Professor Ian Chubb and Chief Scientists from across Australia will convene in Perth this week to discuss challenges and opportunities for Australia that can be addressed through science.

Premier and Science Minister Colin Barnett said the Forum of Australian Chief Scientists (FACS) – to take place this Wednesday, June 24 – provided independent advice to the Federal Government and respective Territory and State governments.

“At each meeting members come together to discuss and develop strategic directions for science and technology issues of national importance,” Mr Barnett said.

“These discussions encourage a national approach to science across the States and Territories.”

Issues cover the breadth of scientific issues nationally, including science priorities; increasing research and development efforts; and encouraging stronger links between government, industry and research organisations.

Western Australia’s Chief Scientist Professor Peter Klinken said this was the first time the prestigious group had convened in Perth.

“Meetings such as this provide an enormous opportunity to further the development of networks and information exchange between Chief Scientists,” Prof Klinken said.

“The Perth meeting also provides an invaluable opportunity to highlight some of the State’s science activities and capabilities at a national level.”

Professor Chubb has the endorsement of the nation’s leaders for a whole-of-government strategy for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). As part of the FACS program he will present a free public lecture entitled ‘Building Momentum on STEM Policy’ on Wednesday, June 24 at 5.30pm at the Harry Perkins Institute for Medical Research.