The Australian Academy of Science has welcomed the appointment of Karen Andrews as the Minister for Industry, Science and Technology.

Academy President, Professor John Shine, said it looks like the federal government may be keeping its promise to place science at the heart of Australia’s policy agenda.

“It’s good to see science back in Cabinet where it belongs,” Prof Shine said.

“One dollar in every seven of Australian economic activity is estimated to rely directly on advanced physical and mathematical sciences and advanced biological sciences.

“Minister Andrews brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the portfolio. As an engineer before entering the Parliament, she has previously held the position of Assistant Minister and Parliamentary Secretary for Science and has co-convened the Parliamentary Friends of Science group since its inception.

“We look forward to working with Minister Andrews and the Government to ensure scientific evidence fully informs their major policy decisions.”