We, the CSIRO Board, as the accountable authority of CSIRO, present the 2015–16 annual performance statements as required under s39(1)(a) of the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). These annual performance statements are based on properly maintained records, and accurately present CSIRO’s performance in accordance with s39(2) of the PGPA Act.
CSIRO is an Australian Government statutory authority within the Industry and Science Portfolio, operating under the provisions of the Science and Industry Research Act 1949 (SIR Act). Our primary purpose is defined through the functions we undertake for the benefit of Australia, as set down in the Act.
Our primary purpose is to conduct scientific research and provide services to address the problems facing industry and the nation. CSIRO is charged with hosting the national research infrastructure on behalf of the scientific community to assist with delivering research. CSIRO must also assist in the uptake and use of scientific results to achieve national objectives and responsibilities.
Additionally, CSIRO is tasked to act as an effective catalyst within the innovation system, with a focus on:
CSIRO continues to play an important role in Australia’s national innovation system. Consistent with our responsibilities outlined in the SIR Act, we aim to deliver innovative solutions for industry, society and the environment, and to see our science used to make a positive impact for the future of Australia and humanity.
Fundamental to this outcome is our focus on:
The activities and achievements outlined in this section of our annual report provide evidence of our performance against our Corporate Plan 2015–161 and the Portfolio Budget Statements 2015–162. In addition to this report to Parliament, we also monitor our performance throughout the year by providing: