Daniel Mulino (Fraser, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Earlier today I had the pleasure of meeting some of Australia's extraordinary scientists as part of the Science Meets Parliament program. COVID-19 has reunited us with our respect for science. In an extraordinarily short period of time the world has gone from having no vaccines against coronaviruses to a multitude of safe, effective vaccine options. This enormous advance has been driven by unprecedented collaboration between scientists, universities, pharmaceutical companies and governments.

Science Meets Parliament is a wonderful showcase of the breadth of talent, passion and commitment that exists in Australia's scientific community. Today I met a woman working at the cutting-edge of seismology, physics and geology. She's helping us to gain a better understanding of tectonics and greater warning of earthquakes. Today I met a woman working at the interface of medicine and engineering. She's helping Australia to be a world leader in biomedical manufacturing while also improving patient care and outcomes. I also met a woman and a man working in a large private sector organisation involved in cutting-edge machine-learning research and improving ways in which to ensure equal access to STEM education for all in our community.

Labor is committed to growing the pipeline of talented Australian women and men entering STEM disciplines and professions. We know that science will be core to Australia's future economic growth and our progress as a nation. Our policies have always supported R&D investment, and we know the value in commercialising new technology and knowledge. (Time expired)