In introducing the paper, Ai Group Chief Executive, Innes Willox, called for a major change in the management culture if Australia is to transform and secure an innovative, competitive and sustainable economic, employment and industry base.

Ai Group sentiment was echoed by the Minister for Industry and Science, Ian Macfarlane, who remarked that leadership and collaboration involving industry, education, research and innovation is crucial if Australia is to realise the opportunities presented by our changing global situation.

In supporting the comments of the Ai Group and Government, Deputy Chief Executive of Universities Australia, Anne-Marie Lansdown said that “it is important for our future economic prosperity and productivity to have greater collaboration between business, government and higher education institutions at all levels.

“We cannot be complacent about our position in the world, or take our relative strengths in industry, education or research for granted,” Ms Lansdown said.

Universities Australia is already working extensively with Ai Group, and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Business Council of Australia, and the Australian Collaborative Education Network to improve workforce capability and graduate employability.

“Universities Australia looks forward to working with Ai Group as this important initiative develops,” Ms Lansdown said.