About the examination

The strategic examination of Australia’s R&D system will help grow our core science and innovation capability.

Australia’s R&D ecosystem is an important element of the government’s plan for a Future Made in Australia. This includes achieving net zero, developing critical technologies and building sovereign capability.  

An effective R&D system increases the benefits of science, research and innovation for Australia. It can help secure our long-term prosperity, security and wellbeing. 

Future job creation, productivity and prosperity depend on investing in R&D. Businesses investing in Australia can support and scale up great Australian ideas. Strategic examination of Australia’s R&D system can help ensure these investments go further.

The strategic examination will find ways to:

  • get more value from investment in research across universities, industry and government
  • harness and grow business investment in R&D
  • leverage our scientific strengths to help address national priorities and foster new industries.  

Independent expert panel

An independent expert panel will lead the strategic examination. The panel’s role will be to:

  • deliver advice to government, including an action plan
  • consult widely across Australia
  • engage with the research sector, business and industry
  • look at challenges R&D investors face
  • identify how science and research can improve Australia’s manufacturing capabilities, support national priorities and our global competitiveness. 

A multi-agency secretariat will support this work. It includes officials from our department and the Department of Education.

Meet the panel

  • Strategic Examination of Research and Development – Chair
    Robyn is the Chair for several groups and has experience as COO, CFO and in other executive leadership roles.
  • Strategic Examination of Research and Development – panel member
    Ian is a fellow of many science education groups and held several university executive leadership roles.
  • Strategic Examination of Research and Development – panel member
    Fiona has made significant contributions to the world of science and received many honours for her work.
  • Strategic Examination of Research and Development – panel member
    Kate has held many board positions and has experience in start-ups, academia, corporate and government.

Consultation process

The consultation will find ways to optimise an industry supported R&D system that attracts increased investment.

We will consult with:

  • industry
  • universities
  • peak bodies
  • government
  • First Nations peoples
  • the public. 

The panel expects to consider feedback in 4 stages:

  1. Analyse. Data analysis, consultation, roundtables and public submissions.
  2. Build. Explore policy directions, develop conclusions, recommendations and policy options.
  3. Test. Consult and iterate on conclusions, recommendations and policy options.
  4. Decide. Develop action plan and engage key players in next steps.

Examination milestones

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