Australia has signalled its intention to begin negotiations to join Horizon Europe, the European Union’s flagship research and innovation program, with the move welcomed by Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering as a step toward expanding global collaboration in science and technology.
The commitment was confirmed in Federal Parliament by Anthony Albanese alongside Ursula von der Leyen, who announced the finalisation of the Europe-Australia Free Trade Agreement.
ATSE said the Australian government intends to work with the European Union to join the program in 2027.
Horizon Europe, which has a budget exceeding €95 billion, supports research and development across areas including climate change adaptation, artificial intelligence and biotechnology.
Participation would allow Australian researchers and institutions to apply for competitive grants and collaborate more closely with international partners.
The prospect of joining the program follows earlier signals from government, including comments by Science Minister Tim Ayres at the CAETS 2025: Generations symposium in Brisbane, where he confirmed Australia was exploring participation.
The research sector, including ATSE, has long advocated for negotiations to begin, including through its 2025–26 pre-budget submission.
ATSE Chief Executive Kylie Walker said the development would strengthen Australia’s research and innovation landscape while creating new opportunities for collaboration.
“This is welcome news for Australian researchers and industry,” Walker said.
“Being a part of Horizon Europe will allow Australia’s world-class researchers to apply for grant funding and open the door to new international collaborations, allowing ground-up access to the 95% of new knowledge created outside Australia.”
Walker said participation would improve the competitiveness of Australian research and development while strengthening global connections.
“It will help make Australian R&D more competitive, opening up new connections, and strengthen international relationships,” she said.
She added that joining the program would create further employment and development opportunities for Australian researchers and align the country with other non-European Union participants.
“It will mean more jobs and opportunities for our talented researchers here in Australia, joining the ranks of other non-EU countries like Canada and New Zealand who are already a part of Horizon Europe,” Walker said.
Walker also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex global challenges.
“And when we work together with international partners, we’re better equipped to innovate and solve the sorts of complex problems that don’t just benefit from global collaboration, they require it,” she said.
ATSE said it welcomed the progress made and indicated it would continue working with the government on international research initiatives, including existing programs such as Australia’s Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund – Strategic Element.
