New Coalition Government grants totalling $8 million will help partnerships between Australian research organisations and businesses to team up with international partners and commercialise research, creating new opportunities and jobs.

The Australian Government has appointed eminent astronomer, Professor Fred Watson AM, as Australia’s first Astronomer-at-large.

The Coalition Government’s establishment of the Australian Space Agency has been commended in a resolution introduced into the United States House of Representatives.

Investments in nine high-tech companies have already created more than 100 new jobs with the support of CSIRO’s venture fund, which is backed by the Australian Government and the private sector.

Work is commencing on a key Budget initiative, with the Australian Academy of Science beginning to develop a 10-year plan on behalf of the Australian Government to increase the engagement and participation of girls and women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

Leading Australian blockchain companies and investors will travel to China as part of an Australian Government-led mission to deepen collaboration and explore growth opportunities within one of the world’s fastest growing technology sectors.

A Victorian business will be the first in the world to commercially develop one of the strongest fibres in existence – a product with applications in the aviation, automotive, aerospace, power, electronics and health industries.

The Australian Government has extended Dr Alan Finkel’s term as Australia’s Chief Scientist for a further two years to the end of 2020.

Australia and Indonesia have concluded an agreement that will create a new era of closer economic engagement between the two nations and open new markets and opportunities for businesses from both countries.

The Australian Space Agency and its French counterpart have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will help both nations work together to develop their respective space programs and take full advantage of the rapidly expanding global space industry.