September 10, 2025
The Australian Government's decision to enter formal negotiations with the European Union for associate membership to Horizon Europe marks a major milestone in unlocking the potential of Australian research and development to deliver tangible benefits to Australians.
Horizon Europe, the EU's €95.5 billion flagship research and innovation program, is the world's largest collaborative R&D platform. Associate membership would place Australian universities, businesses, and researchers at the heart of global innovation-accelerating breakthroughs that directly impact health, technology, sustainability, and national wellbeing.
As the universities responsible for 70 percent of the nation's university research effort, the Go8 has advocated for almost a decade for Australia to join Horizon Europe.
Group of Eight Chief Executive Vicki Thomson said:
This is a pivotal decision and an important first step. Our future prosperity, national security, and global influence depend on our ability to be at the forefront of international research and innovation.
What does this mean for everyday Australians?
- Faster access to life-saving treatments through international clinical trials and medical research collaborations.
- Smarter energy solutions like cheaper, more efficient solar panels and battery storage for homes.
- Improved food security via agricultural innovations that help farmers grow more with less water and fewer chemicals.
- Cleaner transport options, including low-emission vehicles and better public transport systems.
- Enhanced digital safety through AI-driven cybersecurity tools that protect personal data and online transactions.
- Better disaster preparedness with advanced climate modelling and early warning systems for bushfires and floods.
- More inclusive technology such as assistive devices for people with disabilities, developed through global design partnerships.
Go8 universities are already recognised globally for excellence in health and medical sciences, physical sciences, defence, space, and artificial intelligence. Formal association with Horizon Europe will allow these institutions to scale their impact-bringing cutting-edge discoveries into homes, hospitals, farms, and workplaces across the country.
With €36 billion still available until 2027, and a successor program under negotiation with a proposed budget of €200 billion, the opportunity is immense.
Australia is lagging other OECD nations in terms of investment in R&D. While negotiations are in the early stage, signing up to Horizon Europe would be a gamechanger for Australia's research and innovation sector and ensure Australia is not left behind while other nations capitalise on the benefits of research-led innovations.
