Renowned oceanographer, emeritus distinguished professor Tony Haymet has been appointed Australia’s new Chief Scientist for the next three years.
Prof Haymet said, “Australia has superb science and research talent. Kilo for kilo, Australian scientists match it with the very best in the world.
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“This is a good time to thank Dr Cathy Foley for everything she has done for Australian science and research over the past four years. We will be continuing the great progress she made. As Australia’s Chief Scientist, I’ll be emphasising the importance of measurements, data and facts as I work to elevate the contribution of science to the wellbeing and future prosperity of Australians.”
Prof Haymet said the health of our oceans and Australian’s farms, fisheries and communities depended on slowing the rate of increase of greenhouse gas emissions, and eventually decreasing those emissions.
“Last year, the Northern Hemisphere measured the largest year-on-year increase in the growth of emissions since measurements began. Unfortunately, as a planet, we are still far from actually reducing annual emissions,” he said.
“Climate change is just one of the challenges where we in the science and research community have a lot to contribute. Australia has stellar expertise and clever ideas in many sectors—medical technology, astronomy, quantum physics, minerals technologies and many others. We must always include Australia’s inventive farming technologies in this list.
“We are slowly learning that the depth of knowledge held within Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is an absolute strength and a national asset. AI is clearly an excellent opportunity for Australia, both at home and as an export industry.
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“Australia’s science and research community also has the benefit of an active and incredibly switched on network of academies and professional associations—and I intend to tap into every gram of that expertise.”
As Australia’s Chief Scientist, Prof Haymet is a member of the Climate Change Authority Board and the National Data Advisory Council.
