Inquiry into Australia’s research funding

Director of Research Strategy and Services, Peter Dolnik, represented The George Institute at an important roundtable discussion as part of the Inquiry into Australia’s Research Funding on 7 August in Sydney.

Greater efficiency in administration of funding, new mechanisms to grow careers for female researchers, and investment in interdisciplinary research, were among the priorities discussed, and are key to growing Australia’s research capacity and workforce, according to Mr Dolnik.

“The George Institute welcomes the Inquiry and the roundtable process to facilitate a robust discussion across the sector to ensure every research dollar can have the most impact,” says Mr Dolnik.

“We are privileged in Australia by our rich and world leading tradition of medical and health research, and for having one of the best health systems in the world,” he said.

“The Government’s ongoing commitment to funding research, for example through the NHMRC and Medical Research Future Fund, is critical to ensure the best health outcomes for all Australians.

“To ensure research yields the most benefit and return on investment, Commonwealth funding schemes must be administered more effectively. For example, this could be achieved by incorporating both direct and indirect cost of research in all Commonwealth grants rather than asking institutions to submit separate applications for these two types of funding, as is currently the case.”

Read our submission to the Inquiry.

The George Institute's Director of Research Strategy and Services, Peter Dolnik, centre.