June 20, 2016

A Timely Focus on University Research Funding

Labor’s pledge to restore university research funding is a step in the right direction. It focuses the lens on the importance of underpinning Australia’s research capability, a critical component of the transitioning Australian economy.

IRU supports the commitment to restore funding for key research programs.  This builds on Labor’s argument that Government should be the major funder of universities.

Programs such as Co-operative Research Centres have provided a valuable platform for universities, industry and other research end-users to work together to address important issues and have contributed towards increasing industry driven research.

“Such initiatives are worthwhile,” said Professor John Dewar, Chair of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) group.  “We are reassured by Labor’s commitment.   This will enable IRU’s research –intensive universities spread across Australia to continue to deliver outstanding research.”