The Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Association has welcomed the new centres announced today by Senator Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.

"We warmly welcome the Deep Exploration Technologies CRC and the Energy Pipelines CRC to the Cooperative Research Centres community" said Michael Hartmann, CEO of the Cooperative Research Centres Association.

"We also congratulate the eight existing CRCs which have been successful in their applications for extension funding."

"It is wonderful to see the CRC Program invigorated with fresh, new collaborations. These ensure that the Program remains dynamic and exciting. Meanwhile, it is important that successful and productive collaborations are provided with the means to continue their good work."

"Commiserations of course must go to those applicants that have been unsuccessful either at Stage 1 or 2 of the process. We hope that they will consider submitting a new application in a future Selection Round or succeed in finding alternate means to continue their terrific research and keep on providing benefits not only to their partners but ultimately to the nation."

The CRC program was established in 1991 by the Hawke Labor Government. Cooperative Research Centres unite universities, industry and government agencies in research on topics ranging from bush tomatoes to jet aircraft.

For further information contact:
Michael Hartmann, Chief Executive Officer CRC Association Ph 0438 081 968