Improving the Parkes radio telescope to better detect objects in space and a new facility to help develop innovative clean energy materials are just two research infrastructure projects that will boost the ability of our researchers to explore our world.

The Gillard Labor Government is providing more than $30 million for the 78 projects under the Australian Research Council (ARC) Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (LIEF) scheme.

Speaking at Deakin University’s Geelong Campus, Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr, said new and improved facilities will allow researchers to broaden their understanding of topics such as climate change, bacterial infections and space.

“Groundbreaking research starts with creative and bright ideas. High-quality tools and facilities help our researchers turn these thoughts into reality,” Senator Carr said.

“The Government knows this and that is why we are serious about providing our researchers with the best kit the country can afford.

“The 78 projects I am announcing today will also strengthen research partnerships at home and abroad. As part of these projects, our researchers will partner up with other higher education, industry and government organisations in Australia and as far afield as Chile, Denmark and Korea.

“And when these facilities are established, they will be utilised by researchers from around the world, fostering global research partnerships.”
 
Funding for the successful LIEF projects will commence in January 2011.

The LIEF scheme is part of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP). Applications for NCGP funding are subject to a rigorous, independent peer review.

A summary of the 78 successful projects is available on the ARC website at www.arc.gov.au/ncgp/lief. The media announcement kit is available at www.arc.gov.au/media.