Fostering creativity and innovation

Creative and innovative solutions are required for the new social, economic and environmental challenges we face at the national and global levels. The 2008 symposium will focus on what the social sciences can contribute to the broader debate about how Australia can become more creative and innovative. Contributions from the sciences, technology and the humanities will also be examined.

A panel of leaders involved in the 2008 Government review of the national innovation system will discuss the issues and recommendations stemming from the review. Another panel will discuss innovation in higher education, a core component of the creativity-innovation system.

Other questions to be addressed at the symposium include:

• What new knowledge has social science research and research from other disciplines produced about creativity and innovation?
• What lessons can be learned from Australian efforts to foster innovation?
• What more can public policy do to foster creativity and innovation?