Appointment of the Entrepreneurs' Programme Committee

Overview

The Industry Research and Development Act 1986 was enacted by the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia to foster innovation, industrial research, and the development of new technology by providing financial assistance and support. This legislation was introduced to address the need for a robust framework that encourages collaboration between industry, research institutions, and government, thereby enhancing Australia's economic competitiveness and technological advancement. The policy objective of the Act is to promote the commercial application of research and development, which is critical for driving economic growth and improving the quality of life in Australia. Under the authority granted by the Act, the Minister for Industry and Science has appointed the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Committee of Innovation Australia to assist the Board in executing its responsibilities under specific sections of the Act.

Scope and Application

The Industry Research and Development Act 1986 applies to the promotion of research and development activities within Australia, targeting entities involved in research and development as well as entities receiving assistance under the Act. The legislation is intended to foster innovation and competitiveness in Australian industries by providing support for research and development projects. The Act applies to entities engaged in research and development activities, as well as to those that may receive funding or other forms of support through schemes established under the Act. The geographic reach of the Act is national, as it is a Commonwealth Act and applies across all states and territories of Australia. The Act’s application may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, which could include regulations or directions that specify particular conditions or details of the research and development support provided. While the Act broadly applies to research and development activities, it does not specify any explicit exclusions or exemptions within this instrument, although these might be detailed in other provisions or subordinate legislation.

Key Provisions

The primary sections of the Industry Research and Development Act 1986 (the Act) relevant to the appointment of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Committee are sections 22, 18, 19, and 20. Section 22(1) allows the Minister for Industry and Science to appoint a committee to assist the Board in exercising certain powers and functions. Sections 18, 19, and 20 relate to Directions that the Board can make under the Act, including those concerning the establishment and management of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. The Act seeks to foster innovation and research by providing specific mechanisms and support structures, and the appointment of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Committee is integral to this objective. The Act imposes obligations on the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Committee to assist the Board of Innovation Australia in fulfilling its responsibilities as outlined in the Directions under sections 18, 19, and 20. This includes providing expert advice, recommendations, and support in managing and administering the Entrepreneurs’ Programme. The committee must operate in accordance with the directions and guidelines set by the Board and ensure that the programme aligns with the broader goals of promoting industry research and development. Breaches of the Act or non-compliance with the obligations set out for the Entrepreneurs’ Programme Committee can result in various consequences. While the specific offences, penalties, and consequences are not detailed within the appointment instrument itself, general provisions under the Act may include fines and other penalties for non-compliance. The maximum penalties can vary depending on the nature and severity of the breach but may include substantial financial penalties and, in some cases, criminal charges for individuals found guilty of serious violations. Compliance is crucial to avoid these repercussions and to ensure the continued effectiveness and integrity of the programme.