AUSTRALIA AND INDIA UNITED IN RESEARCH COLLABORATIONS

Research collaboration between Australia and India has been given a nearly $20 million boost with funding for new projects to advance pandemic research and reduce plastics waste.

$15 million will go to extending the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund for another four years, while an additional $4.5 million will support collaborative work led by CSIRO to reduce plastic wastes.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews has welcomed the commitment following today’s virtual summit between the Prime Ministers of Australia and India.

“Science and technology and the innovations that result have never been more important for our wellbeing and prosperity,” Minister Andrews said.

“India is a natural strategic partner for Australia, and strengthening that relationship through a shared commitment to science and technology will only serve to benefit both our nations.”

Minister Andrews also announced the opening of a special grants round under the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund for joint projects responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These grants will bring together leading research institutions and industry in both Australia and India who are working on solutions such as vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics,” Minister Andrews said.

Applications for Round 13 of the AISRF close on 2 July 2020.

Individual grants of $300,000–$600,000 will be available for Australian research organisations to undertake collaborative research projects over 12-18 months. The Indian Government will contribute a comparable amount to support the Indian partners on a matching effort basis.

For more details visit business.gov.au/aisrf.