Science & Technology Australia (STA) welcomes today’s release of the 2026 National Research Infrastructure Roadmap Exposure Draft as an important step towards securing the capabilities Australia needs to drive productivity, resilience and innovation.
STA CEO Ryan Winn said, once finalised, the Roadmap will play a critical role in implementing the Ambitious Australia report and strengthening the nation’s research and development system.
“An ambitious Australia needs the tools to match its talent. Our research infrastructure gives scientists and innovators the capabilities to develop new treatments, build industries and respond to national challenges,” Mr Winn said.
“From advanced imaging and environmental monitoring to high-performance computing, these shared national assets underpin research that improves Australian lives.
“The Roadmap is an important opportunity to put the vision of the Ambitious Australia report into practice through coordinated planning and sustained investment in these essential capabilities.”
STA has called for a clear national picture of existing infrastructure, emerging needs and capability gaps, backed by secure, long-term funding and support for the skilled people who operate these facilities. STA is pleased to see the Roadmap Exposure Draft acknowledge that sustainable NRI funding must account for the full life-cycle costs through long-term, predictable funding.
“Long-term investment gives research facilities the certainty to retain specialist staff, maintain essential equipment and prepare for the next wave of discovery,” Mr Winn said.
We are also pleased to see the Roadmap acknowledge the pace and extent that research is changing, as technologies like AI transform how research is done. It notes that physical and digital infrastructures are inextricably linked and cannot be planned separately.
“We look forward to working with the Australian Government on further consultation on these critical capabilities, bringing the expertise of STA’s nearly 150 members to help shape the final Roadmap.
“Together, we can build the research infrastructure Australia needs to turn great ideas into lasting benefits for our communities and economy.”
