Australian Government Faces Backlash Over $760 Million Research Program Cuts
Labor accused of ‘robbing Peter to pay Paul’ for axing $760m research program to fund other science measures
The Guardian
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The Australian federal government has been criticized for cutting a $760 million research commercialization program to fund other science initiatives, including support for the CSIRO and the National Measurement Institute. Researchers argue this decision undermines the government's commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth through research.
- 01The government plans to cut the $760 million Australia’s Economic Accelerator program to fund other science initiatives.
- 02Funding for new projects under the Australia’s Economic Accelerator will not continue beyond the 2025-26 financial year.
- 03Researchers, like Prof. Melanie Davern, express frustration over wasted efforts in grant proposals.
- 04Australia's investment in research and development is below the OECD average, raising concerns about future innovation.
- 05The Australian Academy of Science and universities urge for more stable funding rather than reallocating existing resources.
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The Australian federal government has been accused of 'robbing Peter to pay Paul' by cutting the $760 million Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) program to fund other science initiatives, including a $387.4 million boost for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and $273 million for the National Measurement Institute. This decision has sparked outrage among researchers who believe it undermines the government's commitment to translating research into economic and social benefits. Prof. Melanie Davern from RMIT University highlighted the wasted efforts of researchers, noting that her proposal for AI in urban planning took months to prepare. The AEA was intended to support the development of Australian companies and jobs, and its cancellation sends a negative signal to the research community. Critics argue that Australia's investment in research and development, currently at 1.7% of GDP, is significantly below the OECD average of 2.7%, indicating a lack of adequate support for innovation. While some budget measures were welcomed, the overall sentiment reflects a growing uncertainty in the research sector regarding funding stability.
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The cuts to the Australia’s Economic Accelerator program may hinder the ability of researchers to secure funding for innovative projects, potentially stalling economic growth and technological advancement in Australia.
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