The Office of the Chief Scientist provides information and advice on policy issues, research and administrative support for Australia’s Chief Scientist and the Prime Minister’s Science, Engineering and Innovation Council.
The Office supports Australia’s Chief Scientist in his engagement with the research and industry communities, learned societies, and other portfolios and governments, which enables his comprehensive and timely advice to Government on a wide range of scientific and technological issues of importance to Australia.
The Office provides full advisory and secretariat support for the twice yearly meetings of the Prime Minister’s Science, Engineering and Innovation Council. This includes establishment and support for the Council’s ad-hoc working groups comprising experts from science, industry and other areas to provide advice on wide ranging issues of current interest. Examples of issues include how Australia can best ensure value from its global engagement; and major challenges Australia faces, such as managing our scientific data. These were both discussed at the December 2006 Council meeting. The Office provides briefing and other support for the Chief Scientist in his role of Executive Officer to the Council.