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

I thank Senator Pocock for his question on what is a very important issue for this government. You mentioned the figure of 1.68 per cent, which was the figure that occurred during the time of the last government, the coalition government. The time when this research peaked was when it was at 2.25 per cent, and that was when the Labor Party was in government, so the Labor Party has a strong record in this area.

As a government, we want a vibrant, growing research and development ecosystem that is going to be particularly significant, Senator Pocock, for the government's Future Made in Australia program. As you say, we have commissioned a strategic examination of research and development in Australia. The review will look at the system-wide transformations that can turn our homegrown research and innovation into long-term prosperity and growth, and it will be supported by a panel of eminent experts to guide the government's thinking on research and development. The government announced, as you said, its intention to undertake an examination of research and development in Australia in May this year. I understand that Minister Husic is currently consulting across government—and that will obviously include you—and will have more to say in coming weeks. This examination will be comprehensive and consider what Australia can learn from other countries in this area. (Time expired)