“Ai Group welcomes Minister Tudge’s announcement of a $242.7m Federal Government investment for trailblazer universities to establish four research and industry hubs. Importantly, these hubs will be tasked with leading breakthroughs in critical national manufacturing priorities,” Innes Willox, Chief Executive of the national employer association Ai Group, said today.
“This is an important step in enhancing Australia’s global competitiveness and ensuring our vital manufacturing sector is well placed to take advantage of world leading research and development.
“Lifting Australia’s research commercialisation to global standards, with a focus on Australia’s economic priorities, is necessary if we wish to benefit from global economic opportunities and expanded supply chains.
“The procedure to become a Trailblazer University will be a competitive process, with success being determined by industry links, including co-funding commitments; innovative IP arrangements; promotion pathways for entrepreneur academics; and governance chaired by an industry leader.
“The additional $8m announced for CSIRO support is also both sensible and welcome,” Mr Willox said.
