Some of Australia's leading scientists have criticised successive governments for failing to develop a cohesive policy for funding science.

Nobel prize-winning astrophysicist Brian Schmidt, of the Australian National University, said too often research in Australia was resourced through a series of short-term grants and policies which did not allow institutions to plan ahead.

Immunologist Ian Frazer, who was named Australian of the Year in 2006 for the development of the human papillomavirus vaccine, called on Australia to identify key areas where it could excel, rather than resourcing ''cottage industry'' research.

A spokesperson for Education Minister Christopher Pyne said the government would consider a range of funding options in the lead-up to the next federal budget.

Mr Shorten, who became the opposition spokesman for science after he won leadership of the parliamentary Labor Party, said he was talking with representatives from Australia's science and research sector to discuss how science could be put higher on the national agenda, including long-term planning for research.

He said that when Labor was in government it increased science and research funding to record levels, but by failing to appoint a dedicated science minister, the Abbott government had indicated science was not a high priority.

Mr Shorten said it was also important to train and pay science teachers adequately and to promote an awareness of science within the community.

''There is still more to be done. A system-wide approach needs to be taken,'' he said.

But Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane accused the opposition of obsessing over titles.

''The Australian government recognises the value of science and research as a practical way to

boost skills, innovate and provide new opportunities for our economy,'' he said.

''The government will continue to encourage our nation's scientists, who have established their position as among the very best in the world, and will work with members of the scientific community to encourage the wider application and appreciation of science in our society.''

In the government's midyear economic and fiscal outlook, which was released this week, it followed through on a promise made in opposition to redirect $103 million in Australian Research Council funding towards medical research. Of that money, $43 million will come from the council's Linkage grants, a program intended to develop alliances between universities and other organisations, including industry.

The government said it would be developing new ways of linking science, skills and industry in the new year.