About the Conference Series

On 8 October 2001 the Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) launched The Sir Mark Oliphant Conferences – International Frontiers of Science and Technology. The announcement was made on the centenary of the birth of Sir Mark Oliphant, a Foundation Fellow of both Australian Academies and the first President of the Academy of Science.

Objective of the Scheme

To support the goal of the Government's International Science Linkages Programme established under the Australian Government's innovation statement, Backing Australia's Ability by providing financial support to stage strategically significant international conferences in Australia on high priority, cutting edge, multi-disciplinary themes. More specifically, to:

• promote Australian science and technology, but cutting across conventional science and technology boundaries,
• mobilise R&D on emerging technologies, providing a linkage between research providers and users,
• establish and nurture international cooperation and partnerships,
• enhance the understanding of science and technology in the Australian community,
• aim for world best practice, and
• access overseas expertise.