The Albanese Labor Government has failed to appoint a new Chief Scientist, despite knowing for more than 12 months that the crucial role would be vacated in December 2024.
Paul Fletcher MP
Shadow Minister for Government Services and the Digital Economy
Shadow Minister for Science and the Arts
Manager of Opposition Business in the House
The Albanese Labor Government has failed to appoint a new Chief Scientist, despite knowing for more than 12 months that the crucial role would be vacated in December 2024.
It was revealed in December 2023 that Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley would retire from the position in December 2024.
“Labor has had more than enough time to find a replacement for this crucial role. It is simply lazy and disorganised not to have chosen and announced a new Chief Scientist by now,” Shadow Minister for Science Paul Fletcher said.
“Australia’s world leading scientists would rightly be dismayed.
“Labor needs to lift its game and start prioritising science and innovation. Since taking office Labor’s track record in the Science portfolio has been underwhelming, with its inexplicable decisions including significant funding cuts to Australia’s space program and betting almost $1 billion of taxpayers’ money in American company PsiQuantum.”