Breaking through on technology - perspectives from Australia

20 July 2009This paper presents an Australian perspective on the opportunities and barriers to clean technology development, deployment and transfer, both within and between countries. The research is based on interviews with individuals from government, the private sector, academia, industry groups and other stakeholders.

Similar research has been carried out in other Global Climate Network member countries, including China, India, Brazil, South Africa, the US, Germany and Nigeria. The overall findings of this joint research initiative are published in a separate, synthesis report prepared by the UK-based Institute for Public Policy Research.
 
The research focussed on five key themes:

(i) national priorities for clean technology development and deployment;

(ii) barriers to technology development and deployment within Australia;

(iii) opportunities and challenges presented by the domestic policy setting;

(iv) barriers to technology transfer between countries; and

(v) priorities for the post-2012 climate change agreement.

Noticeboard

07 March 2012

In May 2011 the Federal Government announced that the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) would commence operations from 1 July 2012 and that it would initially be responsible for determining the legal status of groups seeking charitable, public benevolent institution, and other not-for-profit (NFP) benefits on behalf of all Commonwealth agencies. 

07 February 2012
The Productivity Commission has been asked to report within 8 months on Default Superannuation Funds in Modern Awards. The inquiry covers the design of criteria for the selection and ongoing assessment of superannuation funds for nomination as default funds in modern awards.
20 December 2011

On 18 November 2011, Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs, Senator the Hon Kate Lundy, announced the establishment of an independent panel of eminent community leaders to conduct an inquiry into Australian Government services to ensure they are responsive to the needs of Australians from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.