Greens spokesperson for Science and Research, Adam Bandt, has called on the government to reinstate $3.5m in science education funding. This follows Professor Suzanne Cory’s address to the National Press Club today, where she expressed concern science education is on the decline in Australia today.

“Professor Cory made a strong case for linking science education to Australia’s current and future prosperity. Investment in research, innovation and development is critical.”

“Understanding science starts in school and Australian students’ science literacy is lagging behind other countries.”

“Australia’s future economy needs high levels of science literacy.”

“The government should reinstate funding for the very successful Primary Connections and Science by Doing programs run by the Academy of Science. These two programs have improved science education for teachers and students and need only an additional $3.5m over three years.

Greens leader Senator Bob Brown will move a motion in the Senate calling on the Government to reinstate the two programs. 

Contact: Sam La Rocca 0413 620 073