More funding is now available for a program that will strengthen research capacity in regional universities, particularly through skills development.
The Liberal and Nationals Government has committed $66.8 million over the next five years to fund research collaboration between regional universities, industry and other higher education providers to help the learning institutions develop their research strengths.
The second round of the Regional Research Collaboration (RRC) Program, is open from today until 22 March 2022.
Minister for Regional Education Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie, said 11 regional universities are eligible to apply for the program.
"Universities are required to submit a detailed project proposal addressing how it will increase their regional research capability and build capacity, while supporting research priorities of the Australian Government, industry and university sectors," Minister McKenzie said.
"Successful projects will be supported for three years and projects considered 'high performing', based on their long-term benefits, may receive an additional two years of funding.
"The program was announced as part of the Job-ready Graduates package on 19 June 2020 and supports the Government's agenda to align research conducted at Australian universities with the National Manufacturing Priorities (NMPs).
As part of their applications, eligible institutions must display how their project's research will support the NMPs.
"This Program supports the Liberal and Nationals Government's mission to strengthen the regional and remote tertiary education sector in response to the National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy (the Napthine Review)," Minister McKenzie said.
It is expected that projects funded in the second round will commence at the beginning of June 2022.
The 11 universities eligible to apply for the RRC program funding include:
Charles Darwin University, James Cook University, CQ University, University of Southern Queensland, Southern Cross University, University of New England, Charles Sturt University, La Trobe University, Federation University of Australia, University of Tasmania, Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education.
