The Group of Eight (Go8) welcomes the opportunity to make a submission to the House of Representatives Inquiry into Funding Australia’s Research, on behalf of its members who may also make individual submissions.
Research is critical to Australia’s future and universities are at the heart of Australia’s research effort with the majority of Australia’s researchers in the Higher Education sector. These researchers are generating new knowledge and commercialisation outcomes as well as training the next generation of researchers who will underpin Australia’s 21st Century economy and national well-being.
A soon to be released independent analysis of the economic impact of the Go8 universities will demonstrate the significant impact of Go8 research on the Australian economy both in terms of dollar value and, importantly, job creation.
However, more than this direct economic impact, research activity makes a difference in the quality of the daily lives of all Australians.
Through Government support of research, the Australian public and universities are partners in the research- led future for Australia. In this spirit of partnership, the Go8 submission offers a series of recommendations for the consideration of the Committee related to the structure of research funding in Australia which goes to the heart of the efficiency and success of Australia’s research system.
I also look forward to contributing to the work of the inquiry through appearing at one of the public hearings should that be appropriate.
Yours sincerely