The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) and the Australian Academy of Science have unveiled a significant funding opportunity, allocating $6.3 million to enhance scientific and technological collaborations with key regional nations. This initiative, facilitated through the second phase of the Australian Government’s $40 million Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund, aims to bolster international cooperation in critical technological domains.
The Hon. Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science, announced the provision of grants, each valued up to $1 million, available to Australian researchers and enterprises seeking to establish partnerships with counterparts in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Brazil. This substantial financial commitment underscores the Australian government’s dedication to fostering robust international scientific relationships.
Building upon the successful inaugural round in 2024, which facilitated nine pioneering collaborations with global scientific and industrial partners, this second phase seeks to further amplify the impact of international cooperation. The program maintains its focus on national strategic priorities, encompassing advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, hydrogen production, and RNA vaccines. These areas represent pivotal sectors for future economic growth and technological advancement, both within Australia and across the participating nations.
The application process, now open, presents a valuable opportunity for Australian scientists and businesses to expand their international networks and drive innovation in these key areas. The scheme’s overarching goal is to cultivate deeper regional collaboration, stimulate innovation, and accelerate the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies.
Kylie Walker, CEO of ATSE, emphasized Australia’s potential to assume a leadership role in the region by developing practical solutions to pressing global challenges. “These grants establish vital connections between Australia’s leading STEM experts and their international peers, enabling the development of novel technologies through collaborative efforts,” Ms. Walker stated. She further highlighted that the funding would augment the capabilities of researchers, industries, and emerging businesses across multiple countries while simultaneously strengthening international scientific and technological cooperation.
Anna-Maria Arabia, Chief Executive of the Australian Academy of Science, reiterated the critical importance of international scientific collaboration and diplomacy, particularly in the current global landscape. “The caliber of applications received during the first round demonstrated the transformative power of international science collaboration, enabling research and innovation that transcends national boundaries,” Ms. Arabia noted. She underscored the program’s role in facilitating collaborative endeavors that would otherwise be unattainable for individual nations.
Both academies possess a substantial history of international engagement, with numerous global initiatives yielding significant outcomes for Australian science and technology. They are pleased to partner in the delivery of this initiative, which is supported by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science, and Resources.
To ensure the integrity and rigor of the grant allocation process, the academies will leverage the expertise of their distinguished fellowships to conduct thorough assessments of all applications.
Interested parties are encouraged to submit expressions of interest via the official website, glodip.org.au. The deadline for submissions is set for 4 May 2025.
Furthermore, an informational session scheduled for 19 March will provide prospective applicants with an opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into the program. Registration is required to participate in this session and receive further details. This initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening Australia’s position as a leader in international scientific and technological collaboration, fostering innovation, and driving progress in critical sectors.
