Government Challenged Over Science Funding Priorities
Labor MP Ed Husic has launched a striking challenge to his own government, demanding it 'pry open the jaws of Treasury' to secure proper funding for Australia's national science agency. This comes as the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) announced plans to cut between 300 and 350 research positions to address a severe budgetary shortfall.
Comparing Science Investment to Sports Funding
Husic, who previously served as science minister, delivered a pointed comparison during an interview with ABC's Afternoon Briefing. 'We found $600m for a football team in Papua New Guinea. I'm sure we'll be able to find the money for our national science agency,' he stated. The MP argued that some government officials view CSIRO funding as a budget cost rather than a crucial investment in Australia's future capabilities.
The job reductions will significantly impact several critical research areas. Guardian Australia understands that many of the affected roles will come from health and biosecurity, agriculture and food, and environment research units. Science minister Tim Ayres confirmed that nutrition researchers within the health unit have been identified as no longer required.
Broader Context of CSIRO Funding Challenges
These latest cuts add to at least 818 roles lost since July 2024, as confirmed by CSIRO chief finance officer Tom Munyard during October Senate estimates. The agency faces multiple financial pressures, with chief executive Doug Hilton noting that budget allocations 'have not kept up with the cost of doing science'.
Compounding these issues, about 80% of CSIRO's more than 800 buildings are approaching the end of their life cycles. Hilton estimates the agency needs between $80 million and $135 million annually to replace or renovate ageing infrastructure, alongside increased cybersecurity costs.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the government's position, stating his administration remains a 'friend of science' despite the cuts. He highlighted that under his government, CSIRO's average headcount had initially risen from 5,514 in 2022-23 to 6,050 the following year, before this year's expected reduction to 5,495.
However, parliamentary library analysis commissioned by ACT senator David Pocock reveals a concerning long-term trend. While nominal funding has remained relatively steady, CSIRO's annual funding as a percentage of GDP has been declining for decades and now sits at its lowest level since 1978.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers rebuffed suggestions that the government would seek additional science funding in the mid-year economic and financial outlook due in December, despite acknowledging CSIRO's important role in Australia's science and industrial base.
