Government invests $1.5m in regional science partnerships

The Australian Government is investing $1.5 million to support researchers across the Asia–Pacific to tackle some of the region’s most pressing scientific and sustainability challenges.

The Regional Challenge Research Initiative will fund collaborations between researchers, industry partners and other stakeholders from across the Asia–Pacific to develop practical solutions to shared regional challenges.

The initiative is underpinned by a theme of regional resilience and will support projects that deliver tangible outcomes with potential for adoption across the region.

“By bringing together researchers, industry and communities, this initiative will help develop practical tools, data and solutions to help build more resilient and sustainable regions,” said Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres.

Round 1 has opened, with $580,000 in grants of between $50,000 and $145,000 available for projects focused on circular economy solutions, waste reduction, recycling and sustainable resource use.

Projects will run for between 12 and 15 months, and are expected to deliver practical tools, models, datasets and research outcomes that can be adapted and applied across multiple countries and communities.

“Australia’s future prosperity is closely linked to the success of our region, and science and innovation have an important role to play in addressing shared challenges,” said Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy Dr Andrew Charlton.

“This program highlights our commitment to working with our closest neighbours on research that delivers real, tangible benefits.”

To be eligible, projects must bring together an Australian organisation and at least two partner organisations from across the Asia–Pacific. Through these regional partnerships, the initiative will unlock expertise, capability and resources from across the region and create new opportunities for collaboration, innovation and investment.

This program is delivered by the International Science Council’s Regional Focal Point for Asia and the Pacific, hosted by the Australian Academy of Science.

Image credit: iStock.com/Sergey Khakimullin