About Cooperative Research
Investing in science and innovation is crucial for Australia to stay competitive in an increasingly knowledge-based global economy. Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs) help to ensure that Australia remains internationally competitive, with Australian industry benefiting from smarter, faster and more reliable products, technologies and processes.
A CRC is a company formed through a collaboration of businesses and researchers. This includes private sector organisations (both large and small enterprises), industry associations, universities and government research agencies, such as the CSIRO, and other end users. This team of collaborators undertakes research and development leading to utilitarian outcomes for public good that have positive social and economic impacts.
There are now 49 CRCs across Australia, covering six industry sectors:
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CRCs have developed key outcomes, benefits and opportunities for Australia in a wide range of areas. The CRC Program delivers benefits to the economy through:
- The application of CRC generated knowledge/intellectual property – i.e. knowledge transferand utilization; commercialisation & IP licensing
- Access to international knowledge networks – knowledge sharing with international researchers; international partnerships or trade relationships
- Enhanced skills formation – development of highly skilled post-graduates that build a critical mass of skills in a region that attracts multinational companies to invest in the location or helps retain existing business activity levels
About The CRC Association (CRCA)
The CRCA was established in 1994 to provide a national, coordinated voice for its member CRCs on all major issues affecting them in pursuit of their research objectives and in the conduct of the CRC Program.
The Association also leads and facilitates activities designed to establish and maintain recognition of CRCs as significant contributors to community wealth and welfare creation. For more information on CRCs or the CRCA www.crca.asn.au