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

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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

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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

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Team of professionals gathered around a table in a meeting.
Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Venture capital dashboard

Venture capital is a mechanism for financing new and innovative companies. This report provides key statistics on Australian venture capital funds and investments registered under the…
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Industry Innovation and Science Australia

Industry Innovation and Science Australia annual report 2021–22

IISA is an independent board that provides strategic advice to government on industry, innovation, science and research matters. IISA also monitors and oversees a number of innovation…
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…
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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.

Latest news

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Close up of a computer chip
National Reconstruction Fund

National Reconstruction Fund: register for a virtual consultation session

You can now register for a virtual session as part of the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF) consultation.
Groups of antennas on red dirt
Australian SKA Office

Construction begins on SKA telescopes in Australia and South Africa

We celebrated the turning of the soil in remote Western Australia to mark the milestone.
Graphic with the number 75 and writing: Australia celebrates India 1947-2022

Fifteen years of the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund

Look back on 15 years of science and research collaboration supported by the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF). A new round of funding under the AISRF will open in early 2023…

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