Dr Sceats has made an outstanding contribution to the application of science and technology in Australia over the last decade predominantly in moving innovation in optical communications research from 4 leading universities to commercialisation within Australia and overseas. Dr Sceat's great energy, commitment, foresight and originality have been major factors contributing to the growth and international reputation of the Australian Photonics Cooperative Research Centre. He has brought 13 of Australia's leading communications companies into the CRC, and has been instrumental in the establishment of 3 CRC spin-off manufacturing companies, one attracting a multinational US company to Australia for its Asian operations. He is also a national spokesman and representative in photonics.