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ACADEMY WELCOMES NEW CRC GUIDELINES
1 December 2008

The Australian Academy of Science welcomes the new guidelines for the Australian Government's CRC program, following the review of the program as part of the National Innovation System Review.

The Academy is particularly pleased to see the re-instatement of public good as an assessment criterion in the guidelines. It is an overdue recognition that 'public good' science is an essential component of building a sustainable future for Australia.

The Academy is also pleased that the global nature of research is recognised through the opening up of the program to international partners. The recognition of the educational role of the CRC's is also an important improvement and should lead to a new generation of scientists attuned to societal needs.

The flexibility introduced by the new guidelines will enhance the capability of the program to build critical mass in key areas, and promote collaboration between universities, other research organisations and industry.

President of the Academy, Professor Kurt Lambeck said:

'The CRC program is one important part of building Australia's research and development capability that will be required if we are to be an innovative nation.'

Media enquiries: Richard Bray, 0416 331 821, richard.bray@science.org.au