For the first time, the Australian and German Governments have agreed to provide funding to seed future collaborative research partnerships in key areas of importance for both countries.
The Australian Government is providing $450,000 through the International Science Linkages program in 2010-11, to be matched by the German Government.
Representatives from the Australian and German Governments will formalise the new funding arrangements in Canberra tonight as part of a German science delegation's visit to Australia to explore opportunities for collaboration on clean energy technologies.
The funding agreement was warmly welcomed by Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, as a mutually beneficial arrangement for two nations known for their excellence in science and research.
“This new funding will give Australian researchers the opportunity to connect with their German counterparts and work on projects in fields such as solar energy,” Senator Carr said.
"This partnership will allow Australian researchers to make the most of their strengths by taking part in exchanges and collaborations with their German counterparts.
“As the largest economy in Europe and a world leader in developing cutting-edge technologies, Germany is an important bilateral partner for Australia.
"The Rudd Labor Government recognises the importance of strengthening scientific research in Australia. We are actively supporting this with a 25 per cent increase in spending on science and innovation this year, the biggest annual increase on record."
Germany is Australia’s fourth most important collaborator as measured by joint publications, behind the US, UK and just recently China.
Joint research projects will range across many areas including solar photovoltaics, environmental science, information and communication technology, geosciences, marine sciences, and nanotechnology.
For information on how to apply visit the Australian Academy of Science website at: www.science.org.au from Monday, 22 February, 2010.
Media contacts: Fiona Scott, Minister's Office, 0447 086 727
Mary Finlay, Department, 02 6213 6151 or 0412 975 286