National Innovation System Review -- Submissions Called. (February 29, 2008)

The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Kim Carr, said today: "The call for submissions by the Chair of the Government's independent review of the National Innovation System presents a rare opportunity for all Australians to put forward their ideas on how we can create a more effective and efficient national innovation system."

The review panel will be holding extensive consultations with stakeholders, beginning with public forums in March. The review is to cover "all aspects of the innovation system".

The minister emphasised that the government wants the review to examine how Australia can better target its innovation capabilities and said: "I am looking forward to receiving the review panel's findings when [the chairman] Dr Cutler presents his final report at the end of July."

Media Release

 Tuesday, 26 February 2008  

CALL FOR FRESH IDEAS TO SHAPE AUSTRALIA'S FUTURE

Dr Terry Cutler, chair of the Government's independent review of Australia's National Innovation System, today called for submissions to stimulate fresh, forward-looking views and ideas to the review.

"As a major contributor to Australia's future, innovation is critical to boosting productivity and performance in a fiercely competitive global environment," Dr Cutler said.

"Innovation crosses all sectors with contributions from many actors ─ researchers, small businesses, government, and the wider community. It is important that all of them participate in the review process."

Dr Cutler said a call for submissions to the review was the first step in a comprehensive consultation process that would begin with stakeholder meetings in capital cities across Australia in March.

"I invite everyone to join in Australia's innovation challenge by putting forward ideas on actions we must take to ensure a vibrant and successful industry and community in the future," Dr Cutler said.

"In considering the questions posed, we are asking you to think about what outcomes we want to secure for Australia over the next 10 years, and what we need to be doing now to achieve these."

The reviews of the Cooperative Research Centres program and R&D Tax concession will be considered within the overall tax system and broader spectrum of collaboration vehicles.  The panel welcomes comments on these programs in stakeholder submissions. 

The dates of the March stakeholder meetings are attached.  The panel's call for submissions, further information on the review and details of the meetings, are available at www.innovation.gov.au/innovationreview