STATE BUDGET 2006-2007: BUILDING ON THE BOOM - At the forefront of science

11/05/06
Western Australia's impressive scientific reputation will be further enhanced following the State Government's multi-million dollar commitment to biotechnology, innovation, and research and development Treasurer Eric Ripper said today.
Mr Ripper said the Government would build further on the economic boom by investing $72million into the science portfolio over the next four years to fund its soon-to-be-released science and innovation strategy.
"This commitment will foster the continued growth of the biotechnology sector, build critical mass in research, development and commercialisation, and enhance the State's competitiveness in the international marketplace," the Treasurer said.
"It is critical that we foster and develop these industries which will play a growing role in the diversification of the State and national economies in the years ahead."
Mr Ripper said a further $4.5million contribution would help develop a Centre for Food and Genomic Medicine, enabling WA to help solve major health problems such as diabetes and cancer.
"Funding of up to $850,000 per annum for three years has also been allocated to WA's two Nobel laureates in medicine to serve as international ambassadors promoting our State's emerging biotechnology industry," he said.
"These initiatives will complement the Government's commitment of $50million toward building two new medical and biotech research centres in Perth."
Mr Ripper said the Government had also set aside $1.95million a year over the next four years to continue the Interactive Virtual Environments Centre (IVEC) program.
"The funds will ensure researchers and members of the business community have access to WA-based high-speed, high-performance computing and visualisation facilities," he said.
"Through the Australian Partnership for Advanced Computing researchers will also have access to national high-performance computing facilities."

Treasurer's office: 9222 8788