Ministers for the Department of Industry, Science and Resources
The Albanese Labor 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.
Round 1 opens today, 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.
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.
For more information on the Regional Challenge Research Initiative and to apply, visit Regional Challenge Research Initiative (RCRI) - International Science Council.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:
"Research delivers its greatest value when it solves real-world problems.
"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."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy, Dr Andrew Charlton:
“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.
“This program highlights our commitment to working with our closest neighbours on research that delivers real, tangible benefits.”