The current round of pre-Budget discussions in Canberra should recognise the importance of science and technology to the country and regard development of the nation’s science skills as essential investment in our economic and social future, according to the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).

Our needs for more science and engineering graduates, expanded fundamental research, stronger R&D and an enhanced innovation climate should outweigh short-term evaluation of expenditure proposals in the lead-up to the May Budget, according to an Academy President Professor Robin Batterham.

The Academy’s statement responded to recent media reports that proposed science spending would be severely cut during the Expenditure Review Committee process, starting in February.

Professor Batterham said it was important not to pre-judge the 2007 Budget. “Until it comes out, we don’t know what’s in it.”

But the Budget should recognise that international competitive pressure meant that Australia (both private companies and government services) faced an ever-escalating need for innovation, which in itself was both a threat and an opportunity, he said.

“R&D – private, government and collaborative – is a key source of idea generation for innovation. As such, it underpins our efforts in innovation and hence our future national well-being.

“It is often not realised that R&D also underpins innovation, giving new products and processes their best chance in the market place, by improving our understanding of the products (for example, their use, impacts and recycleability) and the manufacturing processes (for example, safety, scale-up and operating limits).

“R&D also provides a training ground that helps familiarise people in new areas, products and processes. It is an indirect but very effective training ground for new technology.

“In Australia we have become quite skilled at interdisciplinary or cross-cutting work in a variety of areas through the CRCs, CSIRO Flagships and other initiatives.

“This is a key area of competitive advantage for Australia and not one that should be squandered.”