Australian Government Allocates $387.4 Million to CSIRO Amid Advocacy Efforts
David Pocock applauds $387.4m in extra funding for CSIRO after tens of thousands sign petition
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
The Albanese government has announced an additional $387.4 million in funding for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) over four years. This decision comes after significant advocacy from scientists and the public, following job cuts and declining funding levels. While the funding aims to stabilize operations, it may not reverse recent job reductions.
- 01The Albanese government will provide an additional $387.4 million to CSIRO over four years.
- 02This funding follows advocacy from scientists and a petition signed by tens of thousands.
- 03CSIRO's funding as a percentage of GDP is at its lowest since 1978.
- 04The funding aims to improve facilities and technology while maintaining workforce stability.
- 05Further investments in research and development are needed, according to ACT senator David Pocock.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The Albanese government of Australia has committed to an additional $387.4 million in funding for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) over the next four years. This decision follows extensive advocacy from scientists, staff, and the public, including a petition signed by tens of thousands of individuals. The funding is intended to address long-term operational costs and support upgrades to facilities and technology, supplementing CSIRO's existing $1 billion annual budget. Despite this boost, the funding is not expected to reverse recent job cuts, although it may help prevent further reductions. ACT senator David Pocock highlighted that CSIRO's funding as a percentage of GDP has reached its lowest level since 1978, emphasizing the need for continued investment in public science. Finance Minister Katy Gallagher noted that this funding would provide stability for CSIRO to deliver essential research, while Science Minister Tim Ayres underscored the importance of publicly funded science in addressing Australia's significant challenges. Additionally, the government announced a further $38 million in annual funding for the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness starting in 2030-31.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
This funding boost aims to stabilize CSIRO's operations and potentially prevent further job cuts, which could affect the workforce and the scientific research community in Australia.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support increased funding for public scientific research in Australia?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




