Report puts Australia-China science collaboration to the test

The science and research partnership between Australia and China has been put under the microscope in a report released by Minister for Science and Research, Senator Chris Evans.

The report, Science and Research Collaboration between Australia and China, provides a detailed analysis of the growing links between Australia and its most important trading partner.

The report analyses the rise of Australia-China science and research collaboration in the context of each country’s socioeconomic environment, the development of bilateral relations and the global growth of science and research.

It compares policy frameworks and investments in science and research in Australia and China, assesses the scale and focus of current science and research collaboration between the countries, and provides information about opportunities and challenges for the future.

“Australia’s research partnership with China is accelerating rapidly and research institutions and industry partners in both countries should pursue opportunities to bring lasting economic, environmental and social benefits,” Senator Evans said.

“Australia has worked with China on scientific issues of mutual benefit for more than 30 years, and these networks position us well for the future.”

The report includes the following findings:

• Both Australia and China have prioritised developing a national innovation system to use science and research to build prosperity and address key challenges;
• There is scope for collaborative relationships in areas of global importance such as sustainable agriculture and energy;
• The large number of Chinese students studying in Australia is developing networks that assist future collaborative efforts; and
• Significant opportunities exist for research institutions and business to create innovation-driven partnerships with Chinese organisations.

The report has been released as part of a new knowledge exchange initiative within the Australia-China Science and Research Fund (ACSRF). The Australian Government has committed $9 million to the fund over three years from 2011-12 to 2013-14, matched by the Chinese Government.

For more information on the ACSRF, visit http://www.innovation.gov.au/ACSRF.