The Department of Environment and Science has launched the first of three regional science and innovation hubs in Toowoomba.
Dubbed the Partner Up Queensland Regional Science and Innovation Network, the hubs aim to provide people living in regional Queensland with more opportunities to engage with science and innovation.
Using the Earth Day Environmental Education Expo in Toowoomba to announce the launch, Minister for Science, Meaghan Scanlon said each regional hub would be provided with funding of up to $70,000 over 12 months to employ a regional coordinator.
“They will also support events, activities and projects that encourage Queenslanders’ participation in and awareness of science and innovation within their region,” Ms Scanlon said
“Survey results from the 3M State of Science Index show that nine in 10 Australians back more investment in science.”
She said the survey also showed nearly two in three Australians thought that scientists and medical professionals were inspiring a new generation to pursue a science-based career.
“Recent research commissioned by the Office of Queensland Chief Scientist showed that 83 per cent of Queenslanders believed science was critical to the Queensland economy,” the Minister said.
Minister for Innovation, Stirling Hinchliffe said the hubs would help to supercharge regional Queensland’s science and innovation.
“For local entrepreneurs and business leaders, the hubs aim to deliver support and partnerships to identify and develop real-world opportunities,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“Whether it’s robots, hydrogen or medical technology, we know science and innovation will be critical to building regional Queensland’s industries and jobs of the future.”
