Every five years, the Australian Government renews its approach to NRI through an NRI Roadmap. This ensures that Australia's research infrastructure remains responsive to emerging needs, and competitive on an international scale.
The development of the 2026 NRI Roadmap has been underway throughout 2025. Earlier this year, a survey was conducted to identify emerging trends and priorities in research infrastructure over the next 5-10 years.
The department has released another survey and an issues paper that outlines areas for additional input including:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems
- the humanities
- research infrastructure workforce
- translation and industry
- new research infrastructure.
The department encourages key stakeholders to contribute their views to ensure Australia's research system continues to drive productivity, create jobs, lift economic growth, and support a sustainable environment.
One of the key programs for Australia's NRI funding is the department's National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). This program Australian researchers with access to world-class equipment, facilities, services, and expertise - empowering the development of leading‑edge research and innovation. NCRS is available to both publicly and privately funded users across Australia and internationally.
The NRI Advisory Group, whose establishment was a key recommendation of the 2021 NRI Roadmap, is developing the 2026 NRI Roadmap from feedback received through targeted face-to-face workshops, online contributions and discussions.
Virtual public Townhall sessions will be held on 27 October and 6 November to present the Issues Paper to Australia's NRI stakeholder community and outline the process for engagement during the consultation process. To register, visit 2026 NRI Roadmap Issues Paper Townhall.
