First-ever science strategy to support economic growth, new industries and jobs

• The Miles Government has launched the Future Queensland Science Strategy 2024-2029.
• The strategy - the first-ever whole-of-Government science strategy - will ensure Queensland capitalises on dynamic fields such as renewable energy, climate change mitigation and quantum and advanced technologies.
• Science Advisory Council Queensland will also be established to guide science priorities and advise on national and international opportunities for research.

The Miles Government has today unveiled its Future Queensland Science Strategy 2024-2029, launching the state on to a new trajectory to become a global science powerhouse.

Speaking at Parliamentary Estimates, Science and Innovation Minister Leanne Linard said the strategy would further elevate the state’s already world-class research and innovation sector.

The strategy will leverage Queensland’s scientific strengths to capitalise on opportunities in dynamic scientific fields such as renewable energy, climate change mitigation and quantum and advanced technologies.

It will seek to generate and translate Queensland’s scientific endeavours into new industries and investment; attract scientific talent; support economic and jobs growth, particularly in the regions; and attract and maintain a science skilled workforce.

The strategy complements the Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy, released in 2023, the Innovation for a Future Economy 2022–2032 and the Engaging Queenslanders in Science Strategy 2021-2024, and is the first-ever whole-of-government science strategy for Queensland.

It also seeks to increase the diversity and inclusiveness of the science workforce in Queensland, particularly among First Nations peoples. 

Science Advisory Council Queensland will also be established, chaired by the Queensland Chief Scientist, to provide guidance on the science priorities and advise on national and international opportunities for scientific research, funding, development and translation opportunities.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Science and Innovation, Leanne Linard:

“The Miles Government is strongly committed to fully harnessing science for the benefit of all.

“Science has never been more important to the social, economic and environmental wellbeing of Queensland. 

“It provides critical information and the knowledge to drive change. We can use the power of science to unlock solutions to some of the biggest challenges of our time.

“Queensland’s scientists are international leaders at the forefront of many discoveries which benefit Queenslanders every day.

“Our Future Queensland Science Strategy 2024-2029 builds upon our world-class research and track record of innovation over many years and provides the strategic vision for Queensland to be world leading in the translation of science for economic impact and social and environmental outcomes.

“The strategy outlines a plan to maintain and increase Queensland’s national and international competitiveness and seeks to better align research and industry development efforts in priority and emerging areas to secure the State’s long-term prosperity.

“Through this strategy we will make Queensland’s science sector even more competitive by ensuring we take our research and development and turn it into new products and services.

“The Future Queensland Science Strategy underlines our continued support of our scientists to work with industry and use their research insights to create new products that have the potential to improve people’s lives.

“It will see us maximise our science strengths, develop commercial opportunities, accelerate decarbonisation, protect our natural environment, grow new industries, and drive innovation in key sectors such as agriculture, health, mining, and energy.”

Quotes attributable to Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson:

“We are confident the Future Queensland Science Strategy will provide the framework we need to generate and translate globally significant science into prosperity and wellbeing for all Queenslanders.

“Science is about using new ideas, innovation and technology to understand and respond to current and emerging issues.

“It underpins decision-making and government policy, and through commercial activities it develops new products, services, and provides real and workable solutions to emerging challenges.

“Our science sector is already internationally recognised as having the scale, quality and diversity to deliver real-world impact.

“This strategy will give us the focus to harness our strengths and leverage our science and research capabilities to ensure this continues.”

Further information:

More information about the Future Queensland Science Strategy 2024-2029 is available at https://science.desi.qld.gov.au/government/future-queensland-science-strategy

ENDS

Media contact: Scott Chandler – (07) 3719 7339