Science, technology and innovation

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

Strengthening Australia’s science system

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.

Revitalising Australia’s vision for science and research

We’re refreshing our national science policy frameworks.

Diversity in STEM review

The diversity in STEM review aims to find ways to improve diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Get updates on our revitalised vision for science and the pathway to diversity in STEM review

Subscribe for updates

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.

International collaboration

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

Science engagement

We engage people nationwide to build awareness and develop capability and skills in science.

Space and astronomy

We are transforming Australia’s space and astronomy industries.

Women and girls in STEM

We are increasing representation of women and girls in STEM.

Find initiatives and funding

Science, innovation and technology initiatives and services

Find initiatives

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

Latest publications

More publications
Graph papers on a desk being reviewed.
Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Venture capital reporting

Early Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnerships (ESVCLPs) were established to stimulate activity in the venture capital sector. They enable fund managers to make early stage investments…
Document icon
Office of the Chief Economist

Industry Growth Centres Initiative: initial impact evaluation

This report by ACIL Allen evaluated the impact of the Industry Growth Centres Initiative.
Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2020 banner
Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2022

Learn more about the 2022 prize recipients
Document icon
Office of the Chief Economist

Innovation Metrics Review

Running from May 2018 to the end of 2019, the Innovation Metrics Review aimed to improve innovation measurement by the government to support better decision-making.

Latest news

More news
Woman looks at data on computer screen

Upskilling and diversifying Australia’s cyber security workforce

Eighteen projects have been awarded funding to improve the quality, quantity and diversity of Australia’s cyber security workforce.
Selina (Yingxin) Li, Kiowa Scott‐Hurley, Charlize Liebrand, Veronica Karakousis, Peta Estens are among the 50 scholarship recipients of the Elevate: Boosting Women in STEM program.

Elevate program awards 50 scholarships to women in STEM of diverse backgrounds

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering announced the first 50 scholarship recipients for the Elevate: Boosting Women in STEM program.
Woman wearing safety glasses and gloves working with wires in a laboratory

Review puts spotlight on diversity in STEM

The diversity in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics sector review will evaluate current programs and ways to improve participation of underrepresented groups.

Visit our science centres or learn more about science 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.

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