Queensland Chief Scientist’s role and priorities

The Queensland Chief Scientist is a whole-of-government position that sits within the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. It provides independent high-level strategic advice to the state government on the role of science, research and innovation to meet Queensland’s challenges.

The Queensland Chief Scientist has three key responsibilities:

  • to lead science strategy across government
  • to increase engagement and participation of the Queensland community in science-based activities
  • to promote Queensland science.

Professor Kerrie Wilson is the Queensland Chief Scientist.

Queensland Chief Scientist Action Plan 2024–2026

Mission

To champion the importance of science for our society, economy and environment, and promote Queensland’s leadership in scientific research, partnerships and translation.

Priority focus areas

  • Raise the profile of Queensland as a world-class research destination ready for investment.
  • Facilitate two-way sharing of information between Queensland Government and Queensland research institutions.
  • Promote Queensland's science and research capabilities.
  • Support critical research infrastructure, partnerships and international linkages.
  • Engage the community, demonstrating the impact of science on Queenslander's livelihoods and lifestyles.

Implementation principles

Holistic and inclusive

  • Respectfully recognise the contributions of First Nations Peoples to scientific knowledge.
  • Engage all fields of science, including the social sciences.
  • Engage regionally, across Australian jurisdictions and internationally.
  • Embrace and champion diversity and inclusion and encourage Queenslanders from all backgrounds to play a role in Queensland's scientific community.

Independent

  • Commit to upholding the independence of the role.
  • Foster evidence-based decision making.

Transparent and best practice

  • Lead activities, initiatives and engagements that are guided by best practice.
  • Engage in debates around the credibility of information and information sources.
  • Keep the 'no surprises' principle at front of mind when making comments on science issues.
  • Undertake activities that enhance the use of science and evidence in policy formation and evaluation across government.

Open communication and engagement

  • Communicate regularly, reliably, and openly, where appropriate.
  • Listen to all priority stakeholders and acknowledge their expectations.
  • Facilitate science knowledge exchange between the public, policy makers and elected officials.
Queensland Chief Scientist, Professor Kerrie Wilson

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