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May 15th, 2013 
Peter Nolan
Updated
Looking forward, but not far enough – that is the verdict of the 2013 budget from scientists.
The Australian Academy of Science says there is no long-term vision for Australia’s future, claiming the budget represents a missed opportunity.
“Now is the time to invest in knowledge-building and innovation, to ensure we are economically competitive,” academy president Professor Suzanne Cory said.
The budget contains $135.3 million over five years for the Australian Research Council’s Future Fellowships program.
The aim of the scheme is to promote research in key areas by giving incentives to encourage scientists to work in Australia.
But the academy has lamented $3.3 billion worth of cuts and deferrals to research and higher education.
“A world-class education does not end at the age of 18,” Professor Cory said.
“We must invest in… research and development over the long term – at least a decade – to create high-quality jobs [and] to attract and retain leading researchers.”
Science and Technology Australia echoed similar sentiments.
“It is pleasing to see the Government has recognised the importance of mid-career fellowships,” chief executive Catriona Jackson said.
“However these measures come in addition to the… university cuts.
“One thing is certain, the cuts will do real damage to Australia’s science and technology workforce and to national productivity and innovation.”
Topics:
budget,
government-and-politics,
science,
research,
research-organisations,
science-and-technology,
computers-and-technology,
australia
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Source Article from http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-05-15/scientists-lament-budgets-lack-of-vision/4691674
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