“Australia’s future success and safety will be shaped by how we respond to new and emerging challenges and opportunities,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“If we want to continue to succeed and prosper, we’re going to need more research and universities deliver this in spades.

“Science and research are key to navigating the energy transition and climate change, maintaining the good health of Australians and driving a more productive, modern economy and nation.

“We are pleased to see these key issues reflected in the draft priorities. University researchers are working hard every day to respond to these issues and have done so for a long time.

“The answers to some of the toughest challenges and greatest opportunities lie in science which is why we must focus and bolster our efforts across these vital pursuits.

“These priorities are a good start, but they must be underpinned by firm implementation measures and adequate investment if they are to have the desired effect.

“Declining investment in research continues to be a major issue, seriously jeopardising our ability to advance as a nation.

“We need research to boost our flagging productivity and drive economic growth, and to respond to the areas of focus identified in the draft priorities released today.

“If we could lift investment in higher education research and development by just one per cent, we could raise productivity and increase the size of Australia’s economy by $24 billion over 10 years.

“The Australian Universities Accord provides an opportunity to address Australia’s research funding problem. The Albanese Government must not let it go to waste.

“We look forward to engaging further with Dr Cathy Foley and the government to shape the final priorities to guide Australia’s science and research efforts in the coming decades.”