Science, technology and innovation

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

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.

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 with science
  • building our capability and skills
  • producing new research, knowledge and technologies
  • ensuring that science improves social, economic, health and environmental outcomes.

Australia’s National Science Statement

Australia’s National Science Statement sets a long-term approach to achieving a strong science system and provides guidance for government investment and decision making.

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
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.
Woman wearing safety glasses and gloves working with wires in a laboratory
Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Women in STEM: longitudinal and completion rate analysis

This report looks at students who finished higher education in 2011 or started in 2012. Did they finish the course they started? Who did further study and how did this affect their…
Image from cover of the Robotics and Automation roadmap showing an illustration of the lunar surface with multiple rovers and Earth in the distance.
Australian Space Agency

Robotics and automation on earth and in space roadmap 2021–2030

This roadmap from the Australian Space Agency outlines a 10-year vision to grow this area of space in Australia - to create jobs both now and for the future.
Abstract graphic
Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Science, research and innovation (SRI) budget tables

Our Science, research and innovation (SRI) budget tables report the government’s investments in research and development (R&D), science, and innovation. The tables also provide…

Latest news

More news
Team meeting in an office

Startup Year: kickstarting the next generation of Australian entrepreneurs

Have your say on the development of the Startup Year program – a joint initiative between our department and the Department of Education. Consultations close 15 November 2022.
Jo White

New head of Questacon appointed

Sydney science and conservation leader Jo White has been appointed the Director of Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre.
Photo of 2 scientists wearing lab goggles looking at a virtual coil

Australian Government to revitalise our science priorities

The Australian Government has announced plans to refresh Australia’s Science and Research Priorities and National Science Statement.

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