Knowledge exchange networks in Australia’s innovation system: overview and strategic analysis

The report concludes that the most effective knowledge exchange networks, in terms of the transfer of knowledge from the creators of knowledge (research providers) to industry users, are those that are sponsored and supported by industry through industry associations e.g. the InnovationXchange supported by the Australian Industry Group and the Department of Tourism and Resources. Industry sponsored and supported research and development networks, which most effectively utilise industry and government supported research and development corporations, have been important to Australian economic and industrial development in the animal and plant sectors. The mining industry has also demonstrated the benefits of knowledge exchange and collaboration through the Australian Minerals Industry Research Association.

The report also concludes that Knowledge Exchange Networks based on the transfer of knowledge through the electronic web-based technologies have limited impact without the involvement of people and organisations performing the roles of facilitator and/or broker. Future work in the area of university-business-government relations should give a priority to building practical, efficient and effective institutions of engagement (frameworks of rules, roles and relationships) as a foundation for the networks that are needed to underpin Australia’s national innovation system. We need to ensure that the structures for collaboration such as partnership, alliances and joint venture are capable of delivering value for all stakeholders, and at the same time ensuring that core institutional values are preserved. This may involve developing a strong skills base in industrial research management and ensuring that there are longer term career opportunities for researchers who work at the academy-industry interface.

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