Positioned For An Ideas Boom? Productivity and Innovation in Australia

Abstract

New sources of growth have become a policy priority for many jurisdictions following the sustained period of slow growth post-Global Financial Crisis (GFC). Governments are trying to grapple with the policy dilemmas of slow productivity growth, disruptive technologies, and population changes. In Australia, we have seen the Government take steps aimed at improving economic growth, prosperity, increased productivity and innovation. Most recently, these initiatives have emerged through the Government’s Industry Innovation and Competitiveness Agenda and the National Innovation and Science Agenda This fourth report in the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre’s Focus on the States series address an issue of central importance to Australia in maintaining economic growth, improving competitiveness and creating jobs – Productivity and Innovation.