A$40 Million Research Collaboration Fund Boosts Australian Soft Power in Asia-Pacific

The Australian government has launched a new initiative aimed at increasing the country’s soft power in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative includes a A$40 million research collaboration fund to support science and technology development in the region. The Global Science and Technology Diplomacy Fund recently opened its Strategic Element funding round, with up to A$6 million available in the first round for collaborations between Australian researchers and those in the Asia-Pacific region.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the government’s commitment to using all elements of national power to enhance Australia’s stability, confidence, and influence at home and abroad. Science Minister Ed Husic highlighted the fund’s role in supporting Australia’s constructive engagement in the region, building on previous commitments. The fund prioritizes collaborations with researchers in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil. Five research priorities have been identified, including advanced manufacturing, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, hydrogen production, and RNA research.

The funding will be managed jointly by the Australian Academy of Science and the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering. A statement from the academies underscored the fund’s importance in advancing science and technology in the region. Applications for the first round of funding close on May 31st.