The Morrison Government is helping Australia's science and technology sectors to increase expertise and expand global cooperation through the $60.2 million Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund.
The new strategic element of the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund will boost Australia's science and technology diplomacy by promoting cooperation with global partners in priority areas.
Minister for Science and Technology Melissa Price said the new strategic element would boost Australia's partnerships across priority research areas, complementing our work with existing partners.
"This fund will provide Australian researchers and businesses with the skills, knowledge and global opportunities to ensure our nation remains at the forefront of science and technological innovation, while solving some of the worldwide challenges we face," Minister Price said.
"Investing in science and technology is particularly important as we navigate our way out of the COVID pandemic, and this fund will support economic recovery while boosting our international science and technology capability.
"The fund provides access to the world's best knowledge, technology and research infrastructure in key areas, equipping Australian researchers and businesses with the tools they need to support our economic recovery and future prosperity."
The priority research areas of cooperation for 2022 are:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing
- Hydrogen Production
- RNA (including mRNA) Vaccines and Therapies
The priority research areas were identified through extensive stakeholder engagement and align with the Government's strategies and priorities, and will be reviewed annually.
"The new fund enables Australia to build new partnerships and will complement our ongoing engagement with existing partners," Minister Price said.
The Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering, in partnership with the Australian Academy of Science, will implement the strategic element of the Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund under an $18.2 million grant agreement.
The bilateral element will continue to be administered by the Department.
Applications for the 2022 GSTDF strategic element grants are expected to open later this year.
