World class tropical research centre opened

Solutions for sustainable natural resource use in Australia’s tropics could be closer thanks to the co-location of some of world’s best and brightest minds to a new, state-of-the-art research centre in Townsville.

Opening the Australian Tropical Science and Innovation Precinct Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr and Queensland Minister for Marine Infrastructure Craig Wallace said the Precinct was great news for North Queensland, whose vibrant regional communities rely on the region’s reefs and rainforests for their livelihood.

"Our climate is changing and there has never been a more important time for governments to invest in science," Senator Carr said.

"While some choose to deny the evidence, the Gillard Labor Government is determined to fight climate change. That is why the Government provided $14 million to CSIRO and James Cook University for construction of this vital research hub, which will house researchers from the two organisations."

A further $18.4 million was provided by the Bligh Queensland Government and James Cook University itself.

Minister Wallace said the investment was vital to ensure a sustainable future for unique tropical areas such as North Queensland.

"This is another example of the Bligh Government’s commitment to Far North Queensland, and a greener, more sustainable future for all Australians," he said.

The researchers will work together on a range of projects to help us achieve a richer, fairer and greener country for all Australians. This includes research into biodiversity and climate change, sustainable production systems, sustainable ecosystem management, hydro-ecological interactions, social and economic factors in sustainable communities, industries and governance systems.

Queensland Senator Jan McLucas said "The multi-million dollar precinct demonstrates the important role North Queensland plays in the research field not just in Australia but throughout the world."

The Precinct is set to become the pre-eminent provider of tropical science knowledge to industries and communities in the tropics, particularly those in the Asia-Pacific region.

For more information about the Precinct, visit http://www.csiro.au/places/ATSIP.html