• Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research

Read the full text

05 October 2011Outlining the priority areas for national, collaborative research infrastructure over the next five to ten years, the elements outlined in the 2011 Roadmap are an important element in strengthening Australia's innovation system.

The 2011 Roadmap articulates the priority areas for national, collaborative research infrastructure over the next five to ten years (capability areas). The priorities outlined in the 2011 Roadmap are an important element in strengthening Australia’s innovation system.

Research infrastructure is a prime determinant of Australia’s ability to undertake excellent and world‑leading research. A strong and thriving research sector is a fundamental component of an advanced innovation system. Many ideas that inspire transformative innovation are born from research.

Innovation is the key to increasing Australia’s productivity and competitiveness, and to responding to the most significant challenges of our time, such as our changing climate, national security, hunger and disease. Innovation provides the avenue to position Australia as a leading player in the high value and sustainable industries of the future.

Over the last seven years, a strategic, collaborative approach for considering Australia’s national research infrastructure needs has proven highly effective. This approach has provided national research infrastructure facilities and platforms that are supporting research to address global economic, social and environmental challenges.

A coordinated approach to investment encourages greater collaboration, between both organisations and researchers, stimulating multidisciplinary research and fostering linkages. This in turn facilitates entirely new research outcomes.

Strategic roadmapping exercises have been instrumental in developing a shared vision of national research infrastructure requirements. The 2011 Strategic Roadmap for Australian Research Infrastructure (2011 Roadmap) has been developed through extensive consultation with researchers and other stakeholders and builds on the previous Roadmaps released in 2006 and 2008.