The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, today announced additional opportunities for Indigenous researchers under reforms made to the Discovery Indigenous Researchers Development scheme.

“Indigenous researchers form an intrinsic part of the Australian research community and strengthen the diversity of Australia's research capacity and capabilities through their unique experiences, skills and knowledge.” Senator Carr said.

“The Australian Government is committed to enhancing support for Indigenous researchers and research to ensure that all talented Australian academics are given a fair-go and the wider community have the opportunity to benefit from their endeavours.

The Discovery Indigenous Researchers Development scheme is administered by the Australian Research Council (ARC).

“One of the major reforms to the scheme is the introduction of a new fellowship—the Australian Research Fellowship Indigenous (ARF Indigenous)," Senator Carr said.

“The new fellowship will exist in addition to the current Indigenous Researcher Fellowships, but as a senior position.

“Other reforms to the scheme include an increase in maximum funding for successful proposals—including a request for the new fellowship—and a new objective of attracting and retaining established Indigenous researchers.

“The ARC has developed these reforms in consultation with the Australian Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS). As part of the reforms AIATIS is also now eligible to receive funding under the scheme."

Applications for Discovery Indigenous Researchers Development funding commencing in 2010 will open in March 2009.

The new Funding Rules are available at www.arc.gov.au

Media contacts:
Patrick Pantano        Minister's office      0417 181 936
Sheena Ireland         ARC                        0412 623 056