Former assistant minister for trade and Future Made in Australia, Tim Ayres, has been sworn in as Australia’s new minister for Industry and Innovation and minister for Science, replacing Ed Husic.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed the new ministry at a press conference on Monday, saying the Labor party intends to keep building Australia's future in its second term.
Andrew Charlton was named Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy, a newly created role that highlights the pressure manufacturers are feeling to hop on the automation bandwagon. He will also act as Cabinet Secretary.
“His policy role will be to particularly work with Tim Ayres in the industry area on new technology, AI, all of that impact that it's going to have on the nature of work and the changing nature of our economy. And I think Andrew will be a contributor there,” said Albanese.
“We'll continue working hard, day and night, for all Australians.”
Ayres and Charlton will also work with the new Chief Scientist, Emeritus Professor Tony Haymet, who was appointed at the end of January, to lead the development of Australia’s science and research system, based on the government’s National Science Statement and National Science and Research Priorities released in August 2024.
