Andrew Leigh

I was delighted with yesterday's announcement of Australian Research Council funding, particularly for projects undertaken by local researchers.

SENATOR THE HON CHRIS EVANS

Leader of the Government in the Senate

Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Science and Research

Dr Andrew Leigh MP

Federal Member for Fraser

MEDIA RELEASE

6 November 2012

ACT punches above its weight in research funding

Universities in the Australian Capital Territory will receive $39.3 million for 112 research projects that will benefit Australians, drive innovation and keep Australia at the forefront of science globally.

The Australian Research Council’s 1014 major grants, worth a total $360 million, will also increase opportunities for Indigenous researchers and researchers in the early stages of their careers.

Fraser is one of 150 electorates, but has received 10% of total available research funding for 11% of all projects.



Federal Member for Fraser, Dr Andrew Leigh, today congratulated the Australian National University, the University of Canberra and the CSIRO on their success.

“Canberra always punches above its weight for research investment and I’m delighted to see this tradition continue.

“Research is a crucial part of Australia’s economic development and I’m delighted as a part of the Gillard Government to recognise the role research plays in keeping us innovative and competitive.

“Fraser would have to be one of the most research-intensive electorates in Australia. Research and innovation is a key part of Canberra’s economy and it’s great to see Government investment continuing in Canberra,” said Dr Leigh.

Minister for Science and Research, Senator Chris Evans, said the Gillard Government is making an investment in research and researchers to help deliver solutions to national problems and improve the lives of Australians.

“The projects span a variety of issues – mapping the universe, reducing Indigenous incarceration, gravitational waves, energy efficient lighting, the role of mentoring, diseases and parasites,” said Senator Evans.

“This research will deliver results that not only benefit Australians, but keeps Australia at the forefront of global science,” Senator Evans said.

The new research projects will be funded under the ARC Discovery Projects, Discovery Indigenous, Discovery Early Career Researcher Award and Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities schemes. More information is available at http://www.arc.gov.au/