The Department of Defence has published a new national security science and technology policy agenda with the aim of strengthening Australia’s national security.
Minister for Defence Industry, Christopher Pyne said the highest priority was being placed on national security through the policy, which was underpinned by strong scientific research and the latest technology.
“Australia needs to remain at the forefront of science and innovation so we can meet any new and emerging threats to our security,” Mr Pyne said.
He said this was why the new agenda was released, replacing a decade old policy.
He said there was a need to work seamlessly across Government and in collaboration with industry and university partners to develop the best capabilities for protecting Australia against threats to its national security.
“This policy puts us in a strong position to harness the expertise and resources required to address national security challenges now and into the future,” the Minister said.
He said the policy’s priorities would include cyber security, intelligence, border security and identity management, investigative support and forensic science, preparedness to prevent and respond to incidents, and technology foresighting.
In a supporting statement, the Department outlined the responsibilities of the National Security Science and Technology Centre.
These were to coordinate whole-of-government national security science and technology; foster academic and industry science and technology partnerships; foster international research collaboration and manage Defence Science and Technology’s national security science and technology program.
The 12-page policy can be accessed at this PS News link.
