Visiting Professor University at Technology Sydney, Executive Director, Acton Institute for Policy Research and Innovation
Australia's fragmented approach to industrial strategy and innovation policy is undermining its economic growth and global standing. The constitutional division of powers between the Commonwealth and the States set out in a written Constitution has created policy silos, hindering the development of cohesive national strategies crucial for leveraging emerging technologies. High Court rulings have further constrained the Commonwealth's ability to fund national initiatives without explicit constitutional backing, leading to delays and implementation challenges. This lack of coordination results in inefficiencies and missed opportunities within the innovation ecosystem. For example, while the Commonwealth develops frameworks like the National Hydrogen Strategy, the States have responsibilities concerning implementation, causing uneven progress nationwide. Establishing an Australian National Innovation Council is imperative. Operating under the "nationhood power," the Council would bridge gaps between federal and state governments, fostering collaboration and aligning policies across jurisdictions. It would streamline efforts, reduce duplication, and ensure efficient resource allocation. By presenting a unified national strategy, Australia can enhance its global competitiveness, attract investment, and lead in sectors like renewable energy, AI, and quantum technologies. Embracing this collaborative approach is vital for driving economic growth and ensuring Australia remains at the forefront of technological advancement https://wix.to/kqTd5i7 #newblogpost #Innovation #Australia #EconomicGrowth #NationalInnovationCouncil #GlobalCompetitiveness #Technology #Collaboration #Federalism #Constitution
Interested John where you see CSIRO in this national innovation coordination role?
Tony Pisanelli
2mo
Great article! The idea of establishing a National Innovation Council in Australia is an important one, especially as the country looks to strengthen its global competitiveness. Thought we should connect!
Andrew Terhorst
2mo
The mechanisms underpinning open innovation are poorly understood. I refer to the link between open innovation and business models and the role of knowledge brokers in driving open innovation. Open innovation should feature more prominently in policy settings. R&D tax incentives and innovation grants should prioritise open innovation over firm-centric innovation. One also needs to consider the absorptive capacity of Australian enterprises. Australia has relatively few researchers who are embedded in businesses. Industry PhDs are a step in the right direction, but we need to do more to boost absorptive capacity.
Christian Ruberg
2mo
Isn't it odd that R&D and innovation create the wealth and opportunities of tomorrow, yet here in Australia we have declining investment in this future ? Risks are too high, ROI too far into the future, no spare capital, too many urgent existential issues now to address ? It should be in every organisation's interest to invest in this initiative. Sometimes even market driven economies need leadership and coordination to traverse market failure. But which specific levers can change the course of the HMAS Titanic ?
David Preiss
2mo
Makes a lot of sense, and your article also demonstrates the root causes to the overall response to covid being poorly managed! The obvious question is funding, given your suggested need for a more operational agency not just policy and governance. A slightly controversial question might be how is the mandate of the council different to the purpose of the Go8 and indeed its member institutions individually but in terms of the need absolutely agree.
Hillary Naish
2mo
Great post Dr John H Howard... thanks for sharing! 👍
Industry and Innovation Specialist | Biotechnology Projects Specialist | Innovation Grant Expert
2moFantastic article. I'm originally from the UK and the Innovation Funding is so much better organised. I find it very challenging here in Australia.