The future of science in Australia
Join the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering and Royal Society of Victoria for an in-conversation event with former Senator for Victoria, The Hon Kim Carr.
The future of science in Australia
Australia's scientific future is at a turning point. Recent findings from the Ambitious Australia report highlight a pressing need for stronger investment in research and development for Australia to remain globally competitive.
Join the Royal Society of Victoria and The Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering for an in-conversation event with former Senator for Victoria, Kim Carr.
Drawing on his experience as Minister for Science, Research and Innovation, Kim will reflect on Australia's current R&D landscape, the challenges facing the sector and what must change to secure a stronger future for science and innovation. The discussion will also explore his work with Inspiring Victoria and the role of the Royal Society of Victoria in supporting innovation and connecting science with the broader community.
This is a timely opportunity to hear from one of Australia's most prominent advocates for research, education and innovation, and to consider what's needed to ensure science continues to drive national progress.
Date
Tuesday 14 April 2026
Time
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Former Senator for Victoria
Professor the Honourable Kim Carr was a Senator for 29 years. A former tech-school teacher, he was drawn to politics by the transformational possibilities of science and education.
Kim was appointed Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research in 2007, a cabinet post he held for most of Labor’s previous six-year term in government. He also served as Minister for Manufacturing, Defence Materiel, Human Services, and Higher Education. He is currently a Vice Chancellor’s Professorial Fellow at Monash University.
Kim made a significant national contribution to policy in these areas, through the important reforms he introduced while in government, his scrutiny and incisive questioning of government policy while in opposition, and the unparalleled longevity of his close engagement in these issues.
Praised by both sides of politics for his unstinting advocacy of Australian innovation and industry, Kim’s resignation from Parliament in 2022 elicited accolades from leaders in higher education, research and manufacturing, particularly for his profound understanding of and appreciation for the interconnectedness of these sectors.
Kim has been one of the strongest supporters of Australian manufacturing, technology and science in the history of the Australian Parliament.
Kim was appointed Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research in 2007, a cabinet post he held for most of Labor’s previous six-year term in government. He also served as Minister for Manufacturing, Defence Materiel, Human Services, and Higher Education. He is currently a Vice Chancellor’s Professorial Fellow at Monash University.
Kim made a significant national contribution to policy in these areas, through the important reforms he introduced while in government, his scrutiny and incisive questioning of government policy while in opposition, and the unparalleled longevity of his close engagement in these issues.
Praised by both sides of politics for his unstinting advocacy of Australian innovation and industry, Kim’s resignation from Parliament in 2022 elicited accolades from leaders in higher education, research and manufacturing, particularly for his profound understanding of and appreciation for the interconnectedness of these sectors.
Kim has been one of the strongest supporters of Australian manufacturing, technology and science in the history of the Australian Parliament.
