Scientists working on grand challenges in Australia and the Asia–Pacific region will have access to $3.2 million of new funding to promote international research collaborations.
Organisations and businesses conducting research on issues of mutual interest will be eligible to apply, including but not limited to work on aging populations, biosecurity, disaster resilience, food security, and energy.
The Academy of Science will administer the Regional Collaborations Programme, which was announced today by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, the Hon Greg Hunt MP, before his attendance at the G20 Science, Technology and Innovation Ministerial Meeting in China this week.
President of the Australian Academy of Science, Professor Andrew Holmes, said the programme would allow for exciting new developments in vital areas of research.
“Australia shares so many of the challenges and issues facing the Asia–Pacific region,” Professor Holmes said.
“By working collaboratively, research organisations, universities and R&D-intensive businesses can make great strides towards finding innovative solutions to some of the biggest issues facing this part of the world.
“If Australia sets itself apart as a leader in collaborative research, the benefits for our domestic economy, our improved relationship with the Asia-Pacific region, and the resulting contributions to global research will be immense.”
He said the programme had no official funding limit for projects or priority area of research, which allowed applicants to be flexible and visionary in their work.
Eligible projects will address a shared regional challenge; demonstrate benefit to Australia; include at least 2 non-Australian partners; have evidence of being able to match funding provided with cash contributions of equal value; and feature workshop and mobility components.
Applicants must be an Australian research organisation or Australian business.
More information on eligibility and arrangements
The Regional Collaborations Programme is supported by the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science. It is one of four initiatives funded by the National Innovation and Science Agenda’s Global Innovation Strategy.
Contact: Dion Pretorius | (02) 6201 9452 | 0418281777 | dion.pretorius@science.org.au
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