The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia made a submission to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources request for information on Australia’s possible association with Horizon Europe.
The Academy welcomes the commencement of treaty negotiations on Australia’s association to Horizon Europe. Association would provide Australian researchers and industry partners with direct access to global knowledge networks, large scale mission-driven funding opportunities and structured pathways for knowledge diffusion and research impact.
Our submission highlights the central role of the social sciences in Australia’s participation in Horizon Europe, and makes two recommendations:
- Recommendation 1: Ensure association costs are not drawn from existing Australia Research Council (ARC) and National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) budgets which are already under considerable strain.
- Recommendation 2: Establish the dedicated support mechanisms and infrastructure required to maximise Australia’s participation success and return on investment, utilising the expertise and skills of all disciplines.