New Chief Scientist open to nuclear future but not at the expense of renewables
Tony Haymet takes on the three year tenure of Chief Scientist, bringing a focus on scientific data, AI, and energy policy.
Emeritus Professor Tony Haymet has been appointed as Australia’s new Chief Scientist, taking over from Dr Cathy Foley. With a career spanning oceanography, climate science, and technological innovation, Professor Haymet brings a strong background in research, commercialisation, and policy engagement to the role.
Professor Haymet has served as Chair of the Antarctic Science Foundation and the ATSE Climate Change Working Group. He is a Distinguished Professor and former Vice-Chancellor at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in the United States. His previous roles include senior leadership positions at CSIRO and work in marine robotics manufacturing. His appointment marks the beginning of a three-year term starting 28 January 2025.
The Chief Scientist advises the government on key scientific issues, promotes research and innovation, and supports evidence-based policymaking. Professor Haymet has stated that his focus will be on ensuring science plays a central role in decision-making.
“I’m delighted to be appointed as the new Chief Scientist of Australia, it’s the role of a lifetime and I’m looking forward to the opportunity,” he said.
Professor Haymet has indicated that energy policy will be a major area of interest during his tenure, particularly as Australia navigates the transition to lower-emission electricity sources. He is open to discussing nuclear energy as part of the mix but stresses that any solution must be practical and available within the necessary timeframe.
“I don’t rule out any energy source. But we’re going to need power for our AI data centres tomorrow, next year, over the next five years. So I’m looking at the slate of energies that are going to be available to help us right now,” he said.
Professor Haymet pointed to the immediate availability of renewables such as wind and solar, which can be scaled up quickly to meet growing energy demands. He also highlighted the increasing preference for AI data centres powered by renewable energy.
“All over Europe and the rest of the world, people want AI that’s made with renewable energy, and we can scale up our cheap renewable energy – solar, wind, any other source you want to do it. But we’re going to have to do it quickly,” he said.
A key part of his approach will be ensuring that scientific data and research underpin government policies. He stressed the importance of accurate measurements and real-world observations to guide decision-making.
“My role is to support the scientists out on the farms, the deserts and oceans – it’s measuring what’s happening to our land, water and atmosphere,” he said.
Professor Haymet also sees AI as both an opportunity and a challenge for Australia. He noted that while AI-driven innovation has the potential to transform industries, strong governance will be required to manage its risks.
“I think as Chief Scientist I’m going to be focusing on measurements, data and facts. I think that’s very important for Australia,” he said.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic welcomed Professor Haymet’s appointment, praising his broad scientific expertise and experience in commercialisation.
“Tony Haymet is an outstanding Australian, who will make an excellent Chief Scientist. With a scientific background spanning several disciplines, along with commercial experience, Tony has lived and breathed the value of scientific collaboration,” Minister Husic said.
With energy, AI, and climate resilience among the major challenges ahead, Professor Haymet’s tenure is expected to focus on ensuring Australia’s research and innovation efforts remain robust and relevant to national needs.
