We are supporting a strong science sector

Science plays a vital role in Queensland’s economic growth.

Science produces the research and development as well as the skills and talent that underpin the innovation economy.

Advance Queensland support for science emphasises that scientific research and development must involve an industry partner to ensure a tangible health, environmental, social and/or economic benefit for Queenslanders.

This is reflected in our Advance Queensland Industry Research programs ­– which are designed to:

  • spur innovation, invention and progress
  • produce brand new technologies, goods and services
  • lay the groundwork for new 21st century industries
  • support the technological transformation of traditional industries, such as agriculture and mining
  • create high-paying jobs and generate global business opportunities.

A 2021 CSIRO report found that for every dollar invested in research and development, there is a $3.50 return in economy-wide benefits for Australia. The Queensland Team approach helps ensure we maintain our leading science capabilities.

The key strategies that support a strong science sector in Queensland are the Advance Queensland Future Economy 2022–2032 Roadmap and the Future Queensland Science Strategy 2024–2029.

Advance Queensland Industry Research programs

The Advance Queensland Industry Research programs support critical research, create stronger links between industry and our research institutions, and fast-track research from the lab to commercialisation.

  • Industry Research Fellowships

    Industry Research Fellowships provide support to PhD qualified researchers to undertake innovative research in partnership with an industry partner that address a key industry issue or challenge.

  • Industry Research Foundations

    Industry Research Foundations assists Queensland businesses to progress innovative products and services towards commercialisation by engaging the skills and expertise of a Queensland-based Honours, Master or PhD level graduate.

  • Industry Research Projects

    Industry Research Projects supports opportunities for researchers and industry to translate research outcomes into commercialisation opportunities for innovative services and products.

Science into industry

In addition, Advance Queensland also supports:

  • The Research Infrastructure Co-investment Fund (RICF)

    The primary aim of RICF is to support existing or establish new Queensland research facilities of national significance in partnership with universities, research facilities and industry.

  • The Science into Industry Initiative

    The Science into Industry Initiative aims to make Queensland’s science sector more competitive by accelerating the translation of research and development, supporting universities and research institutes to partner with industry to build new products and services, and increasing Queensland’s share…

Case studies

Our scientists and their industry partners are working on using artificial intelligence to develop climate-resilient grain crops, re-processing mining waste into valuable materials, finding next-generation cancer treatments – to name just a few of the R&D activities happening across the state. Below are some examples of the breadth and quality of Queensland science and innovation.

  • Next-Gen Water Monitoring System Revolutionises Queensland

    University of Queensland researchers are developing a system that uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to monitor water resources in real-time, providing key information critical to managing water quality and quantity in a country where floods and drought are common.

  • World-First Precision Pest Management Solution

    Digital innovation is the future of crop protection. Brisbane startup RapidAIM helps growers reduce the risk of crop loss from insect pests by delivering the world’s first real-time pest detection.

  • Is Spider Venom the Solution to Controlling Locusts?

    University of Sunshine Coast researcher Dr Shaodong Guo is looing to develop eco-friendly bio-insecticides based on spider and scorpion venom to tacked one of our biggest agricultural blights – Australian locust plagues.

Last updated: 30 Sep 2024