Wednesday, 15 May 2025
The Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA) congratulates Senator the Hon Tim Ayres on his appointment as Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science and welcomes the Hon Dr Andrew Charlton MP as the new Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy.
With the Albanese Government’s strong mandate, Australia has a rare opportunity to advance meaningful reform—one that can rebuild trust in science and re-establish evidence as the cornerstone of effective policymaking.
ACOLA and Australia’s five Learned Academies look forward to working with both Ministers to strengthen Australia’s research and innovation system, and support a future driven by interdisciplinary, evidence-based research.
“Congratulations to Minister Ayres and Assistant Minister Charlton on their appointments,” said ACOLA Chair Professor Louise Baur.
“We look forward to working closely with both Ministers and their teams to support delivery of the governments Future Made in Australia agenda and essential R&D reforms. These efforts are vital to our national resilience, prosperity, and global competitiveness”.
ACOLA CEO Prerana Mehta added: “Diversity and strength in research, science and technology provide the necessary foundations for innovation that accelerates the growth of critical sectors needed to build Australia’s sovereign capability. The Council bring together Australia’s leading researchers, thinkers and practitioners across science, technology, engineering, health, humanities and social sciences. Together, we stand ready to provide Government with independent, interdisciplinary expertise to help inform strategic decisions and guide reform.”
ACOLA emphasises the importance of sustained investment in a collaborative and inclusive innovation ecosystem, capable of addressing Australia’s most pressing challenges—from digital transformation and climate resilience to economic competitiveness and social equity.
ACOLA also extends its deep thanks to the Hon Ed Husic MP, for his leadership, integrity, and commitment to Australia’s innovation agenda.
“We thank Minister Husic for his advocacy and genuine engagement with the sector,” said Ms Mehta. “He championed critical reforms that strengthened Australia’s research and innovation system and elevated the national conversation on the role of science in shaping our future.”
ACOLA and Australia’s five Learned Academies remain committed to continuing constructive dialogue and collaboration with the new Ministers and the broader Government to help shape an Australia that is smarter, fairer and more sustainable.
Media contact:
Ramesha Perera, Engagement Manager
E: Ramesha.perera@acola.org.au
P: 0422 342 907
Journalist notes:
ACOLA is the forum whereby Australia’s five Learned Academies and Associate members come together to contribute expert advice to inform national policy and to develop innovative solutions to complex global problems and emerging national needs.
Working alongside Australia’s Learned Academies:
- Australian Academy of Science
- Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia
- Australian Academy of the Humanities
- Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering
- Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences
ACOLA brings these disciplines together to access more than 3,200 of Australia’s greatest minds to combine critical thinking and evidence to inform robust policy decisions for government, industry and community.
Media contact:
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Ramesha Perera
Email: info@acola.org.au
Phone: 0408 814 040
About
Australia’s five Learned Academies provide independent, authoritative and influential research-based advice across research domains, build public awareness and understanding of research, and champion, celebrate and support excellence in Australian research and innovation. The Academies are:
- Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia
- Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences
- Australian Academy of the Humanities
- Australian Academy of Science
- Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering
ACOLA is the forum whereby Australia’s Learned Academies come together to contribute expert advice to inform national policy; and to develop innovative solutions to complex global problems and emerging national needs.
