The application of science and technological innovation to industrial processes influences the strength and competitiveness of industry by providing a basis for technological change and encouraging economic growth and development.
Australia has a range of statistics relating to science and innovation, many of which are compiled by the ABS. The key indicators relate to Australia's Research and Development (R&D) effort and the extent to which businesses innovate. Australia's statistics in this field are based on international standards, particularly the Frascati Manual developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which is the basic international source of methodology for collecting and using R&D statistics.
A number of additional indicators on science and innovation, not included in this section, are compiled by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources and the Department of Education, Science and Training. See the Bibliography for details.
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