Industry innovators must “embrace change” if Australia is to remain open to business in the global marketplace, it has been claimed.
Arthur Sinodinos, industry minister, suggests there is an “increasing lack of respect for the scientific method” and argues a case for “more research and more innovative thinking”.
His views were reported in the AFR ahead of the National Press Club on Wednesday, where Senator Sinodinos will address some of the issues surrounding Australian and global industries, including their position on climate change.
“Increasingly, there has emerged a lack of respect for the scientific method in some quarters,” he claims in his speech notes.
“We see the conclusions of experts being cast aside, in favour of ideological positions and selective use of facts.
“The only credible response to these positions is scientific fact, and more research, and more innovative thinking.
“This is why innovation and science are more important than ever. As the portfolio minister, I’m responsible for strengthening our commitments in these areas.”
He suggests that “disruption and change are inevitable… across the global marketplace”, warning that industry leaders either “acknowledge the change or we risk being overwhelmed”.
“Our job as a nation is to embrace change, and derive the greatest benefits we can,” Senator Sinodinos continued.
“Governments cannot turn back the tide of change or mandate existing market structures. We’re part of a global marketplace. Our competitors overseas are not waiting for us to change.”
“[Some people] have been questioning the government’s focus on innovation and science: in particular, that ‘innovation’ has become a buzzword that excites socially mobile, inner-city types, but for other Australians, creates anxiety about job losses and insecurity.
“Through our innovation policies, we want to keep Australians in gainful, well-paid jobs. That’s what this government’s policies are all about.”