INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
OBJECTIVES
The Innovation and Technology Statistics program produces statistics to assist understanding of the impact of research and experimental development, innovation and new technologies on economic and social outcomes.
The program provides measures of: the penetration and use of selected new technologies, particularly information and communication technology (ICT), within Australia, for both businesses and households; research and experimental development undertaken by businesses, governments, higher education institutions and private not for profit organisations; and innovation for Australian businesses. The program also provides the Expanded Analytical Business Longitudinal Database, which is a tool for understanding business activity and possible links to business performance and productivity. These statistics are used for the compilation of the Australian National Accounts.
Clients and partners of the program include: Australian Government agencies such as the departments of: Communications; Industry and Science; and Education as well as the Productivity Commission and Australian Communications and Media Authority; the Reserve Bank of Australia; state and territory government departments; industry associations; research organisations; universities; and businesses.
OUTPUTS
The program produces a range of statistical outputs, showing:
- use of ICT by Australian businesses and households
- internet activity conducted through the Australian Internet Service Provider industry
- innovation activities undertaken within the Australian economy
- research and experimental development undertaken by businesses, government, universities and private non-profit organisations
- selected business characteristics data.
The program is responsible for the collection and publication of Venture Capital and Later Stage Private Equity statistics on an annual basis. This work is user funded.
Using the Expanded Analytical Business Longitudinal Database, the program undertakes analytical work related to innovation and technology, in particular, how these relate to performance and productivity.
The program contributes to the work of national and international agencies, through input to the review and development of relevant statistical standards and frameworks. Related research papers and discussion papers are made available via the ABS website.
DEVELOPMENTS
The main medium-term developments in the program are to:
- implement the outcomes of the review of ICT statistics in conjunction with key stakeholders - due by December 2016 (depending on endorsement of report by relevant Ministers)
- increase the capacity to undertake firm-level analysis of microeconomic drivers of performance, productivity, and improving the evidence base for policy development and evaluation - due 2018.
PROGRAM MANAGER
Dean Bowley
Business Characteristics & Indicators Branch
RESOURCES
| Program costs | $m |
| 2015-16 | 4.5 |
| 2016-17 | 3.9 |
| 2017-18 | 4.0 |
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