Research, industry collaborations increase by 64%

The relationship between researchers and industry has strengthened, according to the latest National Survey of Research Commercialisation. 

“There has been a 64% increase in research contracts and collaborations and an additional $513 million in income generated from when the Coalition came into government,” said Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews.

There were more than 18,000 research contracts and collaborations in 2016, generating income of over $1.9 billion.

“Australia has a strong track record of research successes and our technological breakthroughs have transformed everyday life, including CSIRO’s Wi-Fi technology and the world’s first cervical cancer vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix,” said Andrews.

“Our Accelerating Commercialisation and Incubator Support grants, as well as the Biomedical Translation Fund, are some examples of the Liberal–National government’s commitment to taking bold ideas and developing them into realities that benefit all Australians.”

Now in its 16th year, the National Survey of Research Commercialisation tracks knowledge exchange activities in Australia’s public research system by assessing universities, medical research institutes and publicly funded research agencies.

Image credit: ©Sergey Nivens/Dollar Photo Club