The Information Publication Scheme (IPS) aims to transform the freedom of information framework from one that responds to individual requests for access to documents, to one that requires Australian Government agencies to take a proactive approach to publishing information.

Agency plan

In accordance with the scheme, the Department of Innovation’s Agency Plan provides guidance on how the Department will publish information. The Chief Scientist website is managed by the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS),which sits within the Department of Industry, Innovation, Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Education (the Department).

IPS categories

As detailed in the plan, the Department will categorise information consistently across all Departmental websites, using the structure below.

Who we are

The Office of the Chief Scientist sits within the Science Policy and Agencies Branch of the Department of Innovation. It supports the Chief Scientist of Australia, Professor Ian Chubb. The Chief Scientist is an independent advisor who reports directly to the Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Science and Research, whereas members of the Office of the Chief Scientist report to the General Manager of the Science Policy and Agencies Branch.

An organisational chart is available here.

What we do

The Chief Scientist for Australia provides high-level independent advice to the Prime Minister and other Ministers on matters relating to science, technology and innovation. He also holds the position of Executive Officer of the Prime Minister’s Science, Engineering and Innovation Council (PMSEIC).

The OCS supports his work through research, communications and administration duties.

The position of the National Mathematics and Science Education and Industry Adviser also works with the OCS and through the Chief Scientist.

Our reports

In 2012 the Office of the Chief Scientist published two key reports – the Health of Australian Science and Mathematics, Engineering and Science in the National Interest.

The Office also publishes an Occasional Paper Series.

The Office of the Chief Scientist is included in the Departmental Annual Report.

Our submissions

The Chief Scientist is occasionally asked to prepare submissions to parliamentary inquiries by the Senate and House of Representatives.

ConsultationWe consult a broad range of stakeholder groups as required and through various mechanisms.

Our strategic priorities

Our strategic priority is to support the Chief Scientist in his twin roles of:

• providing independent advice to government on science and technology matters; and
• as an advocate for Australian science nationally and internationally.

Routinely requested information

Freedom of information

All FOI requests regarding the Chief Scientist and his office are managed by the Department of Innovation’s FOI team. The Department’s FOI page explains how you can make a FOI request, the review process, fees and charges and contact information for the FOI Coordinator.

FOI disclosure log

From 1 May 2011, Department’s are required to publish a disclosure log on their website. The disclosure log lists information that has been released in response to an FOI access request for documents held by the Department of Innovation, including the OCS.