Don Farrell (SA, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you, Mr President, for that protection. I would like to thank Senator Brown for her question and note the senator's ongoing interest in the science and research sector. The Gillard government remains committed to supporting a stronger, smarter and fairer nation. Building this sector is at the heart of our commitment. Supporting science and research fuels jobs and growth, increases productivity and supports Australian businesses to compete in the global economy.

For example, we have invested $185 million over two years in the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy. This will support Australian researchers and research facilities to drive innovation and support high-quality jobs growth. NCRIS, as it is known, funds projects that support important research work that will benefit future generations. These projects include work on fabrication infrastructure to support advances in materials design, and earth imaging and geospatial systems of direct benefit to the mining industry.

This government knows our future prosperity relies on Australians having the skills and innovation needed to compete against the world's brightest. That is why the Gillard government has also announced $135 million over five years to extend the Future Fellowships scheme. This new funding will provide 150 more fellowships and builds on the government's original $844 million investment.

Importantly, the Gillard government has also committed $25 million over five years for Hobart's Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre. Our commitment to both research and an ongoing presence in the Antarctic means jobs for Tasmanians and investments in the Australian and Tasmanian economies. (Time expired)