New report shows ARC-funded research is delivering
exceptional outcomes for Australia
An independent report released today says Australian Research Council (ARC) funded research delivers significant and diverse benefits to Australian and international communities that will continue into the future.
The ARC Chief Executive Officer, Ms Judi Zielke PSM, has released the Impact Assessment of ARC-funded Research report, examining the impact and economic return of research funded by the ARC’s National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP).
Ms Zielke said the report shows the NCGP is value for money and delivers exceptional outcomes, with every $1 of research that the ARC funds generating $3.32 in economic output back into the Australian community.
“The report is based on economy-wide modelling, survey data, in-depth case studies, and consultations with Australia’s university and research peak bodies and international funding agencies.”
“It highlights how ARC-funded research has built Australia’s research capability and improved outcomes for critical technology and communications, environmental sustainability, food supply chains, social policy and First Nations peoples,” said Ms Zielke.
In addition, the report estimates that ARC-funded research from 2002-21 will:
- increase economic output for Australia by $184.3 billion
- increase the real income of Australians by $152.5 billion, and
- create 6,570 jobs per year across Australia.
The report highlights case studies such as the Onshore Lobster Aquaculture research project which has developed the technology for hatching, raising and growing lobsters in captivity, creating a more sustainable lobster industry. By 2032, it is expected to generate 1000 jobs and export earnings of up to $100 million per year.
The report also shows the societal benefits of research excellence through a case study on Changing the law to protect survivors of domestic and family violence (DFV), a project that has influenced changes to DFV laws in Queensland and South Australia, and aims to improve the responsiveness and efficiency of the legal system.
The assessment of the NCGP was conducted by ACIL Allen based on NCGP grants awarded from 2002 to 2021.
The full report can be found on the ARC website.
