Labor has unveiled new funding for CSIRO-led climate research at an election doorstop on Friday. Shadow industry spokesman Kim Carr, announced the promised boost at the CSIRO Climate Science Centre in Hobart.
“This $10 million is a response to the central recommendation in the Academy of Science’s report, which was that the capacity for the various science agencies to talk to one another must be restored,” said Senator Carr.
“This will provide 20 extra jobs and allow the science agencies to develop a coherent plan. It will help them to work out where the gaps are in our science, and ensure that they will be able to meet those gaps.”
He said the funds were in response to the Australian Academy of Science Climate Science Capability Review 2017, which flagged:
“Weaknesses in coordination and resourcing arrangements for Australian climate science that create avoidable inefficiency,” the report said. “Substantial gains could be realised by measures to improve coordination arrangements.”
The funding aims to support the efforts at CSIRO climate science operations between Hobart, Aspendale in Victoria, and Black Mountain in Canberra.
“We have seen 1100 scientists removed from their positions during the term of this government,” said Senator Carr.
Senator Carr further emphasised Labor’s commitment to reach an R&D target of 3 per cent of GDP by 2030. The figure is currently around 1.8 per cent.
“We will set up a review, led by Professor Ian Chubb, to deal with the fundamental question of how to achieve the three percent target, because we know how important it is for Australia to change the way it does business,” said Senator Carr.
“We want to learn from word’s best practice, because we know we have to face up to fundamental facts about how our industries are able to change to meet these challenges.”
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