Industry leaders, Government and other representatives gathered at Parliament House in Canberra today, to celebrate the National Launch of Chemistry Australia, the fresh face of Australia’s $40 billion chemistry industry.

At the Launch, Federal Industry, Innovation and Science Minister Arthur Sinodinos said, “Chemistry Australia’s launch is the most significant move for the Association in 22 years."

“A competitive Australian chemicals manufacturing industry plays a crucial role in the success of the Australian economy, employing more than 60,000 people in highly skilled STEM jobs and contributing more than $11.5 billion to GDP in industry value add.

“Chemistry Australia’s membership is committed to identifying research, development and technology priorities, and to improving coordination and collaboration between industry and R&D agencies.

“In short, they represent the future of Australia’s high end manufacturing industry.

“I congratulate Chemistry Australia at this launch, and look forward to working together to secure prosperous industry in Australia,” said the Minister.

Chemistry Australia CEO Samantha Read said, “We have an important story to tell. The business of chemistry is at the nucleus of the Australian economy; it provides inputs that enable 109 of Australia’s 111 industries."

“Becoming Chemistry Australia recognises this central role. It allows us to start the conversation at a different point, focussed on the enabling and innovative qualities of chemistry through the economy, and its contribution to our everyday lives.

Jonathan Clancy from Qenos parent company ChemChina and Chair of Chemistry Australia said, “The Australian chemistry industry is working to answer some of the biggest global challenges."

“Innovation in crop protection and fertilisers to increase yields and farm marginal land, will help deliver the 70% increase in food production needed by 2050, to feed the world’s population. Food waste will be reduced by advanced polymers used in storage and packaging to extend shelf-life. This industry plays an important role in helping to bring these advances and valuable IP to market.

“Improving innovation ecosystems to line up the priorities of research with industry and, most importantly, consumers; is critical to increase Australia’s rate of commercialisation.

“But innovation through to commercialisation requires considerable investment. Creating the right environment for investment is critical. Each business needs to be able to answer: Why should we invest here in Australia?

“Australia must seek non-partisan agreement on key policy areas to give industry a clear signal for investment. In this industry investments are long-term, so decisions made today impact over 30 years.

“Opportunities we take today will be the inheritance of future generations. But this also means opportunities we miss become an intergenerational loss in investment, jobs and innovation.

“Nothing is going to happen without access to reliable and affordable energy. It’s a make or break condition for new investment, and it’s a make or break condition for continued operations,” said Mr Clancy.

Ms Read said, “The industry plays an important strategic role, and is focussed on ensuring it can continue to contribute to Australia’s economy, bringing growth and jobs to communities. As Chemistry Australia, these remain our priorities on behalf of the industry."

“We are very excited about the transition to Chemistry Australia, and we look forward to our continued work with Federal, State and Territory Governments, to deliver outcomes for all Australians,” said Ms Read.

Click to read speeches:

• Samantha Read, CEO of Chemistry Australia
• Jonathan Clancy from Qenos parent company ChemChina and Chair of Chemistry Australia