CAPA Welcomes ALP's Positive Signals on Research to end "Brain Drains"

CAPA President, Bradley Smith, said "the two announcements at the ALP conference today are forward looking."

"They demonstrate the ALP's recognition of the centrality of developing and nurturing Australia's research and development capability in all parts of the country".

"The doubling of Research Fellowships and the condemnation of the reduction of research 'gap places' are significant steps toward ending the "brain drain" of the best researchers overseas and the "brain drain" from regional to metropolitan areas."

CAPA President, Bradley Smith said, "the proposal to double research fellowships is an innovative step and is a strong move toward a real distinction between the ALP and the Coalition on investing in Australia's social and economic future."

Mr Smith also welcomed the conferences' condemnation of the Government's decision to eliminate up to 3,500 research places.

"The removal of up to 3,500 research places - the so-called 'gap places' - will seriously undermine regional and new institutions."

Mr Smith called on the government to immediately review this decision which contradicts its claims in the White Paper that it is seeking to enhance diversity and choice in postgraduate research education.