This is likely to compound the expected shortage of qualified science teachers. It is crucial that the effect of the HECS changes on university enrolments in science courses be closely monitored. Science is also crucial to Australia's sustainable development, and to addressing its serious environmental problems. As Australia adjusts to the competitiveness and technological changes brought about by our engagement with the global economy, so too will our population need to adjust culturally to understand the concepts and issues in this changing world. Widespread and in-depth scientific literacy will be crucial to this development.
All individuals can gain from a general science education.
To continue the previous example, this would include the farmers, land managers and members of the communities in the Murray-Darling basin. Not all graduates in science will become scientists. Nevertheless, while many science students have historically entered other professions, they have used their scientific understanding to benefit diverse spheres in both business and government. It is therefore important that students should be encouraged to undertake higher education in science by removing disincentives, by recognising and acknowledging the contribution of scientists, and by making careers in science attractive to Australians. Further, it must be acknowledged that market forces cannot be relied on to drive student demand for science education.