Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

The coalition government, despite commentary to the contrary, has continued to invest in science. Across the government we are investing $9.2 billion this year alone in science, research and innovation—$5.8 billion of that over the next four years for science and research in the industry and science portfolio alone and $3 billion for CSIRO over the next four years, with funding increases year on year over the forward estimates. Science funding in the industry and science portfolio will increase by $16.8 million over the forward estimates and there will be new investments of $181.2 million to secure operation of vital scientific assets and promote the benefits of science in the community. In addition, the government will invest $12 million to improve the focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics in primary and secondary education through the Industry Innovation and Competitiveness Agenda. I should also point out some other things, but sadly time will elude me.

Question agreed to.