Welcome to FASTS. We represent the interests of some 60,000 Australian scientists and technologists.FASTS works to influence science and technology policy for the economic, environmental and social benefit of Australia. What's NewSubmission: FASTS Submission to the ARC on Future Fellowships (27 June) FASTS welcomes the new Future Fellowships program. We call for clarity as to how 'National Priorities' are established; a three-tier not two-tier Fellowship structure and recommend provision for part-time Fellowships to take account of family, teaching or other commitments. download submission Forum outcomes statement: FASTS Forum on the Rights and Responsibilities of scientists (10 June) This paper summarises key issues arising from the FASTS forum and subsequent discussions on rights and responsibilities (obligations) of scientists and the independence of science and research agencies. download paper Submission: FASTS Submission to the House of Reps inquiry on higher degree research training (30 May)
Improving scholarships, increasing international students and moving to fully funding research training are our key points. One recommendation is to roll the International postgraduate awards (IPRS) into the Australian Postgrad awards (APAs) and universities allocate on basis of merit irrespective of country of origin. download submission Media release: FASTS statement on budget cuts to CSIRO and ANSTO (21 May) The cuts are regrettable and next year's budget must provide a more stable funding basis for science and research. We should also consider the social costs to cutting rural and regional science hubs in terms of loss of role models to encourge young people to consider science and higher education. download statement Opinion: FASTS initial response to Budget 2008 (13 May) Ken Baldwin's initial response to the budget. Pretty much as expected. New measures for infrastructure and amenities are useful but fundamentals must be centrepiece of next budget or Government's credibility in education and productivity will be in tatters.
download article Submission: FASTS submission to the review of the National Innovation System (30 April) FASTS have focused on 3 key areas - need for greater co-ordination/strategic oversight of national priorities and capacities; managing risk in research; and demand-side capability specifically in Government to engage with public sector R&D. download submission Submission: FASTS Submission on the review of Questacon (30 April) Questacon plus a significant role in science communication and awareness. There is a need for consolidation and better co-ordination across all such programs. There is also a pressing need for a new institution to showcase science, research and innovation to complement Questacon. Download submission Media release: New research classification welcomed (31 March) The ABS has released new research codes for disciplinary based research and socio-economic objectives (SEOs). FASTS strongly supports the revision which will enable better evaluation of R&D at institutional and national level.
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