University science powers Australia From the people who solve complex problems to the research that drives new discoveries, university science is fundamental to Australia’s future. Universities educate people to think scientifically and generate the knowledge our society and economy depend on. That capability reaches far beyond laboratories and traditional science careers. It equips people across industries, government and communities to understand evidence, adapt to change and turn new knowledge into practical outcomes. Maintaining our strong university science system is essential to ensuring Australia has the skills, ideas and research capability to meet future challenges and opportunities. Benefits of university science University science delivers benefits across Australia, developing skilled people, creating and applying new knowledge, strengthening the economy and building national capability. A skilled and adaptable workforce Builds people’s ability to think critically, evaluate evidence and solve complex problems across a wide range of industries and careers. From discovery to real-world impact Takes research beyond discovery through development, implementation and commercialisation, turning new knowledge into practical outcomes. Productivity and economic prosperity Strengthens industries and businesses, supports new technologies and contributes to productivity and economic growth. National capability and resilience Builds Australia’s capability to respond to challenges and opportunities in critical areas including health, food, energy, the environment and defence. University science: the impact in numbers University science makes a significant contribution to Australia’s research capability, workforce and economy. 80% of public sector research, is undertaken by universities (36% of Australia’s total R&D) 11% of Australian economic activity is underpinned by advanced physical and mathematical sciences 67% of university STEM-qualified graduates work beyond traditional science and education sectors 19% growth in scientific, professional & technical services employment by 2035 (second-largest growth industry in Australia) University science in action Across Australia, university science is turning knowledge and expertise into practical outcomes for communities, industry and the nation. The value of university science University science creates value across the entire research pathway, generating new knowledge, commercial opportunities, public benefits and policy insights that can underpin future industries and solutions. Read the story » Helping Australian businesses scale through university science University partnerships give innovative businesses access to expertise, facilities and talent they couldn’t build alone. This helps SMEs test ideas, develop products and turn promising technologies into commercial growth. Read the story » Powering the net zero transition through critical minerals Australia’s energy transition depends on university expertise in critical minerals, chemistry, materials and geoscience, built through decades of collaboration with the mining, energy and manufacturing sectors. Read the story » 3 ways industry collaboration is breaking new ground University–industry collaboration is helping turn scientific knowledge and talent into real-world products, businesses and skills, from AI-enabled IVF and advanced batteries to biotechnology and researcher industry experience. Read the story » University science builds Australia’s sovereign capability University science is advancing Australia’s capability in quantum technologies, critical minerals, advanced materials, batteries and manufacturing, turning fundamental research into technologies, products and local industrial capability. Read the story » Helping Australian agriculture move towards net zero University research underpins a $300 million national collaboration to develop and scale low-emissions technologies for Australian agriculture, while protecting farm productivity and profitability. Read the story » Australia needs more people who think like scientists. Science graduates don’t just become scientists. They take critical thinking, problem-solving and evidence-based decision-making into industries and careers across the economy. Brian Yates, Emeritus Professor at the University of Tasmania and a member of the Australian Council of Deans of Science (ACDS), argues that Australia needs to strengthen the science pipeline now to build the capability it will need in the future. Read the article in The Conversation » Explore Australian University Science Australian University Science is a twice-yearly magazine, sharing stories of university science, education, innovation and impact from across Australia. Subscribe to keep up with the latest discoveries, ideas and impact from Australia’s university science community Issue 16: October 2026 Research reimagined: how generative AI is supercharging Australian university researchKath Kovac This is what responsible AI looks likeProfessor Mary-Anne Williams, Chief AI Scientist More than data centres: how Australian universities can contribute to sovereign AI capabilityMatt Agius Issue 15: May 2026 Closing the gaps in Australia’s future science workforceRichard Musgrove A joined-up skills system: universities, TAFEs and industry working as oneSara Phillips Mining the gap: how universities must forge the critical minerals workforceEllen Phiddian Issue 14: October 2025 Can STEM graduates be Australia’s lifeline?Professor David Lloyd, Vice Chancellor and President, University of South Australia University science: essential for solving Australia’s biggest challengesProfessor Craig T. Simmons FAA FTSE, Chief Scientist for South Australia A pipeline with a problem: how do we make STEM more inclusive?Sara Phillips View all issues » Recommended resources Our Australian Council of Deans of Science (ACDS) site offers several valuable resources, policy papers, and guides that showcase leadership, pedagogical innovation, and strategic advocacy for higher education science: Indigenous Science Content: Key guides and resources aimed at embedding Indigenous perspectives, knowledge systems, and cultural practices into university sciencecurricula. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) in Science: Frameworks, case studies, and practical toolkits designed to help universities integrate industry experience, internships, and workplace learning into undergraduate science degrees. Science Threshold Learning Outcomes (TLOs): National benchmark standards for science graduates, offering clear definitions of core competencies, scientific literacy, and inquiry skills required across Australian universities. CER-STEM (Discipline-Based Education Research): Insights into STEM discipline-based educational research, focusing on evidence-based teaching methodologies, academic leadership in higher education, and continuous improvement in science teaching. ACDS Teaching & Learning Repository: A curated collection of peer-reviewed grant reports, fellowship outcomes, and open-access educational resources for science academics. ACDS reports, submissions and other publications: Timely contributions to policy discussions on the role of university science in Australia.
