Ian Chubb

Australia’s ex-chief scientist Ian Chubb thinks government ministers should be subject to a public performance management system, so voters can judge how seriously they take their actual jobs versus their political careers.

The 2017 Henry Parkes Oration, delivered by emeritus professor Ian Chubb. Whatever happened to “one people, one destiny?”

David Hazlehurst and Martin Bowles have launched Innovation Month, with a packed schedule of events across the country. Plus five key leadership behaviours to help foster innovation.

The nation’s science incubator is fostering a start-up culture on research development. Nine staff units could become independent businesses under a new program.

Scientific entrepreneur Alan Finkel will be Australia’s chief scientist when Ian Chubb finishes at the end of the year. The government points to his experience in the commercialisation of research.

Commonwealth public servants attending last week’s Innovation Month Summit were encouraged to start using a new central platform to register fresh ideas and novel solutions to difficult challenges — but there are still plenty of challenges for leaders looking to establish a culture of innovation.

The process of developing public policy can alarm and frustrate academics. But philosopher-kings and benevolent technocrats are not the answer, a forum on where science fits into policymaking heard.

Australia’s chief scientist says the nation needs to get serious about science. He’s set out recommendations for a cohesive national strategy to tap potential in the field.