This publication finds that Australian business spending on research and experimental development (R&D) reached $18.3 billion in 2011-12.

By state, the largest increase in expenditure on R&D from 2010-11 was reported in Western Australia (up $320 million), followed by South Australia (up $215 million). The largest decreases were reported in Queensland (down $180 million) and Victoria (down $141 million).

Between 2010-11 and 2011-12, business expenditure on R&D as a proportion of GDP decreased from 1.28 per cent to 1.24 per cent.