Science, technology and innovation

We support and invest in science, technology and innovation to drive skills, capability and industry growth.

The Australian Government’s vision is for an Australian society engaged in and enriched by science.

We build a strong science system by:

  • engaging all Australians in science
  • building our capability and skills
  • producing new research, knowledge and technologies
  • ensuring that science improves Australia’s social, economic, health and environmental outcomes.

Pathway to diversity in STEM

The Diversity in STEM Review aims to find ways to improve diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Learn more about the review. 

Diversity in STEM Review: draft recommendations

We published draft recommendations to improve diversity in STEM.
Learn more

Revitalising Australia's vision for science and research

We're refreshing our national science policy frameworks. Learn more about our work to revitalise our National Science and Research Priorities and National Science Statement. 

Australia’s draft National Science and Research Priorities

We published draft science and research priorities.
Learn more

Building capability and promoting science, technology and research

We lead the coordination of science policy across government portfolios, councils and committees. We support:

  • International collaboration on science and research
  • industry investment in innovation and digital technologies
  • gender equity initiatives
  • nationwide engagement with the sciences.

Technology

The Australian Government is backing critical and emerging technologies to strengthen Australia's future.

Industry innovation

We are boosting innovation in Australian businesses and building competitive industries.

Science engagement

We engage people nationwide to build awareness and develop capability and skills in science through our Inspiring Australia initiative.

Women and girls in STEM

We are increasing representation of women and girls in STEM.

International collaboration

We support Australian businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers to collaborate with international partners on science and research.

Space and astronomy

We are transforming Australia’s space and astronomy industries.

Science, technology and innovation initiatives and services

Find initiatives

Celebrating science achievements

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science

PM’s Prizes for Science
Australia’s most prestigious awards for celebrating achievements in scientific research, research-based innovation and excellence in science teaching.

Measurement awards

National Measurement Institute
The National Measurement Institute presents annual awards to recognise outstanding achievements in measurement science.

Featured publication

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Critical Technologies Statement

19 May 2023 Department of Industry, Science and Resources
The Critical Technologies Statement outlines how the Australian Government is supporting technologies that can impact our national interest.

Latest news

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Industry Innovation and Science Australia

Industry Innovation and Science Australia (IISA) releases 2022–23 annual report

Find out about IISA’s activities and performance over the last financial year.
Industry Innovation and Science Australia logo
Industry Innovation and Science Australia

New insights on barriers to innovation highlight Australia’s missing band of medium-sized businesses

Improving Australia’s capacity to be resilient and to grow the economy requires more innovative small businesses scaling up.
Man using a robotic hand while 2 other people watch
Industry Innovation and Science Australia

Industry Innovation and Science Australia (IISA) report highlights barriers to collaboration and commercialisation

Find out about the challenges Australian businesses face and ideas to remove those barriers.
A woman in a small warehouse leans against some equipment. A man behind her lifts a tray of plants off a shelf.

Industry Growth Program launches advisory service

The Industry Growth Program is officially open for business. Start-ups and innovative small-to-medium businesses can now apply for expert advice on getting their ideas to market.
Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2024 logo with medallion and Australian Government crest. Decorative background with sparkles.

Nominations open for the 2024 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science!

Do you know an inspiring scientist, innovator or science educator? Nominate them for the 2024 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science by 8 February 2024.

Visit science centres and agencies in our portfolio

Questacon

A specialist division of the department that promotes understanding and awareness of science and technology.

Australian Space Discovery Centre

Industry Innovation and Science Australia

We are an independent statutory board of entrepreneurs, investors, researchers and educators.

National Measurement Institute (NMI)

NMI is the peak Australian organisation, responsible for biological, chemical, legal, physical and trade measurement.

Australian Space Agency

We are transforming and growing a globally respected Australian space sector.

Australian SKA Office

We coordinate the Australian Government’s national and international involvement in the SKA project.

Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

ANSTO conducts research and development across nuclear science and technology activities.

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

CSIRO supports industry needs through research activities.

Geoscience Australia

Geoscience Australia provides geoscience information, services and capability to government, industry and stakeholders.

Meet our science advisors and ambassadors

Dr Cathy Foley AO PSM FAA FTSE
Chief Scientist | Industry Innovation and Science Australia board deputy chair
Professor Lisa Harvey- Smith
Women in STEM Ambassador | Australian Space Agency Advisory Board member

More information

Australia's Chief Scientist provides high-level independent advice to the prime minister and ministers on matters relating to science, technology and innovation
The National Science and Technology Council provides strategic advice to the Prime Minister and other ministers on important science and technology issues facing Australia