A strong university research sector is critical to Australia’s post COVID-19 economic recovery and Group of Eight universities are committed to working with government and business to build our sovereign capabilities.
“Go8 universities carry out 70% of our nation’s research activity and welcome the challenge set by Education Minister Alan Tudge in his speech at the University of Melbourne today,” said Chief Executive Vicki Thomson.
“The Go8 is fortunate to have some of the best and brightest minds in Australia and there is a commitment from the sector to share our expertise for the benefit of all.
“The Australian government’s commitment to a funding strategy that maps research and commercialisation will deliver gains for universities, business, our economy and most importantly the Australian population. From world class research flows new industries, improved commercialisation and a stronger economy.
“As the Prime Minister has said in the past, we need a team Australia approach to rebuild in the post COVID-19 world and Go8 universities will form an integral part of the team.
“If COVID-19 has driven one message it’s that our nation has learned some harsh lessons about being too reliant on others to supply us an end product. But it also has enabled government to see what true collaboration between universities and business can achieve.
“The Australian Government has issued a challenge and an economic direction for business, government and universities. For our part, the Go8 is committed to it,” said Ms Thomson.