Strategic advice

Regional Australia supports key industries such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing and renewable energy, which underpin the country’s food security, resource sector and energy production. ATSE welcomes Jobs and Skills Australia’s proposed regional roadmap and suggests expanding its focus on STEM skills to enable regional Australians to participate in in-demand STEM professions.

ATSE welcomes the release of the Strategic Examination of Research and Development (SERD) Issues Papers and proposed actions to strengthen Australia’s R&D sector. These submissions respond to the six Issues Papers with recommendations to ensure effective implementation and build a stronger R&D system.

Food security is central to Australia’s wellbeing, economy, and international responsibilities, yet the country is facing growing risks from climate change, workforce shortages, fragile supply chains, and rising food insecurity. ATSE calls for long-term investment in research and innovation, digital connectivity for farmers, and targeted workforce development. 

A submission to the Climate Change Authority consultation on their 2025 Annual Progress Report. ATSE's submission notes technology and policy options available to assist Australia to reach its emissions reduction targets.

Robust cyber security underpins social resilience and national security. ATSE’s submission recommends uplifting R&D across the economy, with a significant focus on cyber security for emerging technologies relevant to the country’s critical infrastructure, including core sectors such as water, energy, health, transport and defence.

Transition technologies and policy pathways for diesel reduction in Australian mining, road freight and agriculture, fisheries and forestry.

Artificial intelligence is radically reshaping work, education and security in Australia, and is officially recognised as a critical technology in government policy. How we harness it will impact the nation’s economic prosperity, national security and continuing innovation.

Victoria’s workforce is evolving, creating emerging challenges due to technological innovation and the net zero transition. ATSE’s submission recommends strengthening foundational STEM education skills in both primary and secondary schooling with measures such as increasing resource provision, supporting hands-on STEM learning and uplifting STEM educators.

ATSE recommends that Australia’s governments (state, territory and federal), in collaboration with industry, universities and not-for-profit organisations, boost Australia’s annual investment in research, development and innovation to 3% of GDP, as part of the economic reforms.