Australia’s government has started ‘non-binding exploratory talks’ with the European Commission to investigate association with Horizon Europe, the European Union’s €95.5 billion research and innovation programme.
The Australian government said that the talks will involve a series of ‘technical discussions’ which will consider details and principles of a possible future association agreement to Pillar II of Horizon Europe, which includes research collaboration in key areas such as industry, renewable energy and health and wellbeing.
Association would allow Australia’s researchers to access funding directly from the Horizon Europe Programme and to lead projects. Australia would make financial contributions to the programme.
Australia’s minister for industry and innovation and minister for science Tim Ayres said: “My department has announced today that it is conducting exploratory talks with officials from the European Commission to consider the possibility of Australian association with Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research and innovation fund. It’s too early for any decisions or commitments from government of course, but it’s a positive conversation for Australia to be having.”
To facilitate discussions, the Australian government is seeking input from a range of stakeholders including universities, SMEs, and research centres, with the aim of understand views both for, and against, possible association to Horizon Europe. The government said that responses will help it “decide on actions that advance our national interest.”
European commissioner for startups, research, and innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva added: “Horizon Europe drives breakthroughs at a scale nobody can achieve alone. Association would enable Australia to take part directly in that effort and contribute to its scientific excellence to global challenges.”
Welcoming the decision to begin negotiations, Group of 8 Australia (Go8), a coalition of Australia’s eight research intensive universities said: “As the universities responsible for 70% of the nation’s university research effort, the Go8 has advocated for almost a decade for Australia to join Horizon Europe. This is a pivotal decision and important first step. Our future prosperity, national security, and global influence depend on our ability to be at the forefront of international research and innovation.”
The Go8 notes that Australia is lagging other OECD nations in terms of investment in R&D and adds: “Signing up to Horizon Europe would be a game changer for Australia’s research and innovation sector and ensure Australia is not left behind while other nations capitalise on the benefits of research-led innovations.”
Should Australia’s government decide to associate with Horizon Europe, it will join a growing list of non-European participants, including South Korea, New Zealand and Canada.
Further reading
- Horizon Europe: UK warns it's 'now or never' as it boosts support for business
- South Korea expands the global reach of Horizon Europe
- New Zealand is now a part of Horizon Europe. The UK is not. Time for Plan Z?
- Canada and European Commission begin negotiating access to Horizon Europe
Get more science and innovation news every month in Chemistry & Industry magazine. You can subscribe to C&I here.
Visit Blog