August 23, 2023

IRU welcomes government response to ARC Review

The Innovative Research Universities (IRU) welcomes today’s announcement by Minister Jason Clare of the government’s agreement to all ten recommendations outlined in the independent review of the Australian Research Council (ARC). 

IRU Executive Director Paul Harris said the announcement is a recognition of the critical role of the ARC in Australia’s research and innovation system. 

“These reforms will set the ARC up for a stronger future and ensure that the world-class research undertaken by Australian universities will deliver even more impact into the future,” he said. 

“The IRU applauds the government’s commitment to clarifying the purpose and governance of the ARC and limiting the role of the Minister’s intervention about individual grants to matters of national security. 

“This will increase public trust in the quality and integrity of Australian research.” 

The Government response announced today is aligned with the recommendations made by the IRU in its submission to the Review. The ARC plays an important and unique role in supporting the ideas that drive national productivity and wellbeing and this should be recognised in its legislation. 

Other IRU recommendations included increasing support for Indigenous-led research; improved consultation with the research community; and streamlining processes. 

The research undertaken in our universities delivers a broad range of economic, social, and cultural benefits to the nation. The IRU is committed to working closely with the ARC, the Universities Accord Panel, and the government on innovative approaches to understanding and supporting research impact.