About
The plan addresses all elements of the science and technology ecosystem.
Vision and goals
Show moreVision - Western Australia is a world leader in science and technology, which drives the ongoing wellbeing, resilience and sustainability of the community, economy and environment.
Goals
Western Australia is:
- Home to cutting-edge research and technology capability with successful translation and commercialisation.
- A leading destination for science and technology expertise and investment.
- Host to an interconnected network of high-quality, multipurpose physical and digital infrastructure.
- Renowned for research and development collaborations, integration of Aboriginal communities’ traditional knowledge, and capacity to transfer technologies within and across sectors.
- Home to world-class STEM education, training and career pathways where all people can meaningfully participate in science and technology.
- A place where science is celebrated, trusted and used for evidence-based decision making.
Outcomes:
- A strong, diversified and sustainable economy that supports local industries, entrepreneurs and future jobs.
- Safe, secure and healthy communities that are digitally connected and actively embrace new technologies.
- Thriving regions that are attractive places to live and work.
- Climate resilient environments that can meet the challenges posed by climate change.
- Respectful acknowledgement of Aboriginal communities’ traditional knowledge in science and technology.
The delivery of this plan will be supported by an action plan, key performance indicators and a governance structure, led by a Science and Technology Council
Strategic action areas
Show moreThe Western Australian Government will drive improved capability and performance in science and technology across the State by taking action across 6 strategic areas.
- Talent, skills and workforce: growth, attraction, retention and development of STEM-qualified individuals underpins development of a competitive, innovative science and technology sector.
- Funding and investment: stable, long-term funding for science and technology underpins the long-term competitiveness of the State’s industries and the economic and social wellbeing.
- Physical and digital infrastructure: development of physical and digital infrastructure supports retention of skilled researchers in Western Australia and facilitates efficient, cutting-edge research.
- Leadership, collaboration and communication: strong leadership and collaboration in the research and development sector promotes inter-sector knowledge sharing, innovative solutions and maximises investments in infrastructure and equipment.
- Translation, commercialisation and procurement: translation and commercialisation of research and development transforms new knowledge into tangible economic and social benefits for the community.
- Policy, regulation and governance: policy and regulation can be a strong catalyst for innovation, and research and development by fostering safe and ethical ecosystems.
Research and capability priorities
Show moreThe identified strategic action areas can support an uplift in science and technology capability across any field.
To support strategic decision making and prioritise activity, Western Australia’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan identifies 6 key areas to focus research and development efforts:
- Clean energy and decarbonisation
- Environment and sustainability
- Mineral supply and value-adding
- Health and wellbeing
- Sustainable and secure food production
- Critical and emerging technology.
These 6 areas were identified through extensive consultation and respond to the opportunities and complex challenges that Western Australia faces in coming decades.
These priorities aim to:
- Capture unique opportunities for Western Australia.
- Encourage strategic investment in science and technology capabilities.
- Elevate Western Australia’s research performance.
- Contribute to a diversified economy
- Aid decarbonisation
- Address social challenges.
While these focus areas have global relevance, specific research priorities have been identified within each area.
They also identify areas where Western Australia can contribute to broader national priorities, including through initiatives such as the National Reconstruction Fund and Future Made in Australia.
