The Queensland Government is developing a new long-term statewide science and innovation strategy, with public consultation open until 31 March 2026. This initiative, led by the Crisafulli Government, aims to create a single, unified strategy to guide investment, strengthen collaboration between government, industry and research institutions, and enable economic and community benefits across Queensland. The strategy seeks to ensure that scientific research and innovation can be effectively translated into practical outcomes that support long-term economic growth and social development.
Receiving the opportunity to participate in the consultation roundtable for the Ideas into Impact discussion was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was incredibly empowering to express our views and advocate for the perspectives of Queensland students, especially those whose further education and careers will be directly affected by these decisions.
The discussions provided invaluable insights into both the opportunities and challenges involved in driving job creation, regional growth, industry development, and investment attraction. The tinkering of thinking and the creation of ideas from a broad range of perspectives highlighted the importance of diverse viewpoints in shaping effective innovation policy. Getting to engage with experts, researchers and industry representatives made the experience both inspiring and highly informative.
We also had the honour of meeting the Minister for Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation The Hon. Andrew Powell MP, together with the Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth The Hon. Sam O'Connor MP. They greatly emphasised the importance of community discussion and cooperation as the pathway towards a better future. When we collaborate as a community, we can create ways to lift everyone around us such that there is no disparity in access or opportunity. There is a deep, special strength in the voices of the youth that can really play a part in shouldering the future.
The sessions also offered a valuable opportunity to connect with leading industry representatives from across the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct and the broader Gold Coast community. Hearing diverse perspectives and contributing to meaningful conversations about the future of science and innovation in Queensland was an experience we truly value!
We were tasked at the Roundtable with gathering further voice from QAHS students with Year 12s invited, via survey, to have their say. The collective voice of Academy students will be collated in an online submission to further contribute to the consultation phase of the Strategy.
Joel George and Demi Li
QAHS School Council Student representatives/Year 11 students