President’s speech – Australia’s choice: science and technology in an era of disruption

In the recent Ralph Slatyer Address on Science and Society, delivered by Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC at the Cooperative Research Australia 2025 National Innovation Policy Forum, the focus was on the imperative role of science and technology in shaping Australia’s future amid an era of disruption. Professor Jagadish articulated a vision for a nation that acknowledges the pivotal position of scientific innovation in addressing not just immediate challenges, but also long-term prosperity.

The address was rooted in a profound acknowledgment of Australia’s unique cultural heritage and the legacy of inquiry established by figures like Professor Ralph Slatyer, who fervently believed in science as a vehicle for societal progress. The speech underscored that the strength of Australia’s scientific and technological capability is crucial, not merely as an economic asset but as a national security imperative.

### The Context of Disruption

As we stand on the brink of what has been termed the fourth industrial revolution, the intertwining of technology and all aspects of life has raised the stakes significantly. The rapid pace of advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum science, and genomics influences not only the economy but also the geopolitical landscape. Professor Jagadish pointed out that nations are experiencing more fragmented global relations, with scientific collaboration facing strains due to foreign interference, cybersecurity threats, and disinformation campaigns.

This environment presents both challenges and opportunities. It compels us to rethink our strategic alliances and underscores the necessity of bolstering our research and development (R&D) capabilities. Australia’s recent agreements, like the critical minerals deal with the United States, signal a recognition that access to technological resources and innovations is now at the heart of global power dynamics.

### A Call for Action

Amid these complex realities, Jagadish called for urgent action. He voiced concerns about the current state of Australia’s R&D investment, observing a marked decline in governmental funding. Alarmingly, in the U.S., the private sector now funds nearly as much basic research as the government does. This shift poses the risk of prioritizing private gain over public good, a trend that threatens Australia’s scientific independence and innovation ecosystem.

The Professor urged the establishment of a Research Fund, akin to the Medical Research Future Fund, dedicated to ensuring that public good research remains a priority. This strategic maneuver would help protect the foundations of basic research necessary for collective advancement across sectors.

### The Role of Public and Private Sectors

Jagadish emphasized that the interplay between public and private sectors must evolve. Countries around the world, like those in the European Union, are redefining their approaches to R&D, advocating for greater collaboration between the two spheres. In Australia, the fragmented nature of scientific endeavors and insufficient industrial investment in R&D weaken our capacity to compete.

He illustrated the point by referring to the Academy’s initiatives to attract STEM talent and the necessity of building a robust talent pool to meet the demands of an evolving landscape. Without a strong workforce, Australia’s ambitions in crucial fields like geosciences, data science, and material sciences remain unfulfilled.

### A Vision for Future

To position Australia favorably amid these transformations, Jagadish outlined aspirations for a comprehensive R&D strategy. He presented a roadmap anchored in principles that advocate for collaboration and innovation. Key strategies include reducing program duplication, promoting excellence in research, and creating more open conditions for knowledge exchange.

The address reframed the narrative around science and technology from luxury to necessity, underscoring their role in economic growth and national security. By promoting a culture of academic freedom and collaboration whilst ensuring robust regulatory frameworks that protect innovation, Australia can better navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world.

### Conclusion: A Shared Responsibility

In conclusion, Professor Jagadish’s speech serves as a clarion call for action. It compels not just policymakers but every stakeholder in Australia to recognize the foundational role of science and technology. As the address powerfully reiterated, “What we choose for science today, will shape our destiny.”

This historical moment requires a collective commitment to prioritize and invest in our scientific capabilities. By doing so, Australia not only secures its standing in the global arena but also upholds its responsibility to future generations. The need for immediate and concerted action in science and technology is not merely an option—it is a profound obligation for national prosperity and security.

As we forge ahead, the key takeaway from Jagadish’s insight is clear: the moment to act is now, for the repercussions of our choices will reverberate through generations. The dialogue between science and society remains crucial, and this is our opportunity to deepen that connection in a time of unprecedented change.

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