Objective
To foster innovation, investment and growth in the Australian science industry by working with industry to enhance its international competitiveness and its engagement in global supply chains.
Significance for Australia
The science industry produces laboratory-related goods and services used for measurement, analysis and diagnosis of physical, chemical and biological properties. In 2004-05, Australia’s domestic market for scientific equipment and laboratory related services was estimated to be $10 billion, and employment was 51,500. Manufacturing production was $940 million, exports $890 million and imports $2,780 million. Services production was $4,680 million, of which exports were $140 million. The industry was growing at more than 10 per cent annually. The main export markets for manufacturers were the USA, EU and North Asia. Australian laboratory and technical services companies operated in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, EU and the Americas.
Departmental role and current achievements
The Department has worked with the science industry to achieve its vision:
'By 2015 develop a cohesive, export oriented Australian science industry that is known world-wide for its quality, innovation and commercialisation of leading-edge technologies.'
Key priorities for achieving the vision are: commercialising more Australian research; increasing exports; harmonising regulations and standards and aligning them internationally; attracting and retaining a skilled and flexible workforce; maintaining industry statistics; and improving the industry’s internal and external linkages.
Targets for 2008-09
- Facilitate the industry's engagement in the Governments innovation, industry, science and research policy developments.
For further information
Phone: +61 2 6213 7546
Email: inquiries@innovation.gov.au
Web: www.innovation.gov.au
May 2008