Western Australia’s Science and Technology Plan signals a clear vision for the potential of technology over the next decade

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) welcomes the release of Western Australia’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan and its accompanying Action Plan. This plan is a future-focused vision for WA as a world leader in technology and innovation, leveraging the Plan’s six focus areas using the strong research and development (R&D) sector of the state.

ATSE particularly welcomes the adoption of our recommendation to establish a Science and Technology Council. This Council will shepherd the implementation of the Science and Technology Plan – providing expert advice to the WA Government from some of the state’s best scientists and innovators.

The introduction of near-miss funding programs, designed for researchers who narrowly miss out on competitive funding from the Federal government (and advocated for by ATSE), is a huge win for researchers in WA. Applying for Commonwealth grants can be an onerous undertaking with low success rates, meaning many exceptional and deserving proposals miss out. The WA near-miss program will help ensure that more great ideas see the light of day.

ATSE CEO Kylie Walker welcomed the plan and encouraged other states and territories to follow Western Australia’s lead.

Western Australia’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan will help to supercharge local innovation, with smart and strategic investment in big ideas at the local level, and a mechanism to embed evidence-based advice to inform decision-making. This plan provides a blueprint for other states and territories to follow to level up their own innovation and build their future prosperity.

“Technology and innovation are the key to national economic prosperity. CSIRO research shows that every dollar invested in R&D returns $3.50 to the Australian economy”, said Kylie Walker.

“We look forward to engaging with the WA State Government and making available the expertise of our Fellowship to deliver on the Action Plan, inform decision-makers, and grow WA’s productivity into the future”

ATSE acknowledges the work of the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, and WA Chief Scientist – and ATSE Fellow – Professor Peter Klinken AC FTSE, in developing this vision for the next decade of science and technology in Western Australia.

Read the full WA 10-Year Science and Technology Plan.