Feb 14 2008
For the second consecutive year the Australian Nano Business Forum (ANBF) has led a highly successful national Delegation to the Annual Nano Tech International Exhibition and Conference currently underway in Tokyo, Japan 13-15 February 2008; the world’s largest international nanotechnology event with more than 50,000 visitors over three days.
The Australian Delegation comprises of 31 delegates representing 13 organisations.
Additionally, the Delegation is supported by the Federal Government and State Governments of Victoria, Queensland and WA, all of whom have representatives at Nano Tech 2008. Business and the research sector are well represented, and the Delegation includes 10 undergraduate students from La Trobe University’s Bachelor of Nanotechnology/Bachelor of Science degree.
The Australian Ambassador to Japan, Mr Murray McLean OAM, made the keynote speech at a high level networking function held last night at the Australian Embassy. In a message from Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, delivered to the assembled guests, it was indicated that “the Australian Government is committed to continuing its substantial contribution to the development of this innovative industry.” Senator Carr’s acknowledgement of “the involvement of the ANBF as a major partner with the Office (of Australian Nanotechnology) in its collaborative work” was also noted. The CEO of the ANBF, Ms Tina Rankovic, commented that “the Australian visit to Nano Tech 2008 has enabled us to build on the interest and awareness developed in previous years in Australia’s nanotechnology capabilities. Globally, Australia is becoming recognised as a niche player in nanotechnology with particular strengths in nanomaterials, bio-nanotechnology and possible ‘cleantech’ applications” said Ms Rankovic. Ms Rankovic also noted the support and contributions made by the Federal and State Governments involved.
The ANBF plays a distinctive role in national industry development. Over the previous three months it has made an important contribution to the regulatory debate through its leadership of the Responsible NanoCode initiative in Australia; and also to policy development in its contribution to the Victorian Nanotechnology Statement, which will be released later this month. It played a significant role in the MANCEF COMS 2007 conference in Melbourne in September 2007, and has been involved in the design of the industry stream for the forthcoming ICONN 2008 conference to be held in Melbourne 25-29 February 2008. Unique amongst peak nanotechnology industry bodies, it leads international marketing and promotion of Australia’s national capabilities.