The Australian government has announced the first round of grants for the $40 million Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund (GSTDF) to boost Australia’s regional scientific industry.
With a focus on collaboration within the Asia-Pacific, the grant makes up a part of the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthen scientific collaborations with Australia’s neighbours.
Australian researchers and businesses can now apply for a share of $6 million, enabling them to collaborate with counterparts in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and Brazil.
“The Albanese Government is deploying all elements of our national power to make Australia more stable, confident and secure at home, and more influential in the world,” said Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong.
“Working with our partners to diversify our economy, make more things in Australia, respond to climate change and improve health security is all part of making Australia more robust and resistant to external shocks.”
The funding will focus on boosting global efforts in areas of key national interest, including advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hydrogen production, and RNA vaccines.
The GSTDF builds on the federal government’s $10.3 million investment to establish an Asia-Pacific regional office of the International Science Council to coordinate scientific engagement across the region.
“Refocussing this program on collaborations with our nearest neighbours cements our commitment to play a constructive role in the region, while more effectively addressing our biggest challenges at home,” said Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic.
The federal government is teaming up with the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering and the Australian Academy of Science to deliver the first round of grants.
Researchers and businesses may submit their applications starting 20 March and up until 31 May 2024. For more information, visit industry.gov.au/international-collaboration.
