The Senate Committee considering The Greens’ bill to amend the Australian Research Council Act takes evidence today

The bill’s purpose is to prevent ministers vetoing specific grants recommended by the ARC. The research community is pretty much in favour of this– perhaps making for a chorus of consensus from witnesses.

Of which there are a  bunch.  Representatives of four of the five university peak bodies are on first, followed by two sessions for representatives of seven universities, then one for humanities and social science lobbies, followed by sessions for STEM then staff and student groups.

Just about the only major absence is the Australian Technology Network.

The sole individual opponent of the bill appearing is Peter Ridd – the ex James Cook U scientist is the author of the Institute of Public Affairs’ submission. The Australian Research Council and the Department of Education Skills and Employment are also on – last, after a very full schedule.