MEDIA RELEASE
$2.5 MILLION SEED FUNDING TO GROW ARC RESEARCH
NETWORKS
1 August, 2003 MIN 429/03
I am pleased to announce the Australian Research Council’s $2.5
million seed funding program to support planning for new ARC
Research Networks.
The seed funding will be provided through the Commonwealth
Government’s Innovation Action Plan, Backing Australia’s Ability, to
assist Australia’s top researchers coordinate and communicate
research activities and build teams and networks across
disciplinary, organisational, institutional and geographical
boundaries. Seed funding of up to $50,000 per project will be
available. All of Australia’s top researchers are able to
participate in the program, regardless of home institution.
This creative approach will lead to further innovation and
nurture exciting and inter-disciplinary research, particularly
within the areas of the four National Research Priorities announced
by the Prime Minister in December last year which set a clear and
coherent direction for achieving excellence in Australian research.
Cooperation between universities, government research
organisations, professional organisations and research funding
agencies is particularly encouraged. The Australian national
innovation system is strong – producing 2-3% of the world’s
intellectual output. However the elements of our research system do
not always work together.
High impact research often requires extensive and productive
collaboration. A coordinated research effort is critical for
Australia’s future. For the first time therefore, under this
program, institutions other than universities will be eligible to
apply for ARC seed funding.
This will include museums, other research funding agencies such
as the Rural Research and Development Corporations, professional
associations, private organisations, and government agencies like
CSIRO and DSTO.
Reports prepared under the program will be published by
researchers on the world wide web by 9 February 2004, providing the
opportunity to view our research strengths, and to understand the
aspirations and plans of Australia’s top researchers. An
ARC-commissioned web site will announce events and facilitate
on-line discussions of activities funded under the program.
Full applications for ARC Research Networks will be called for
later this year.
For further information:
Dr Nelson’s Office: Ross Hampton 0419 484 095
Australian Research Council: Helen Cooper 0412 113 868
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