Universities Australia is urging both sides of politics to put research and development at the centre of their productivity agenda at the next election.
"R&D is the engine room of Australia's future - it drives productivity, economic growth and progress," Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said.
"The strategic examination of R&D discussion paper, released today, acknowledges this, reinforcing the need for immediate action to support our researchers.
"Their work is critical to our future - including how we navigate the energy transition and climate change to preparing us for a changing economic and geopolitical environment."
Universities Australia recommends the next federal government act immediately to support Australia's R&D future by:
- increasing government investment in research and development to at least the OECD average of 0.74 per cent of GDP (up from 0.49 per cent), and
- lifting the PhD stipend base rate to at least $36,000.
"These are quick wins that address the issues we're well aware of," Mr Sheehy said.
"By delaying action, we're delaying our country's progress and growth. We can't keep kicking the can down the road.
"Increased government investment in university research is needed to offset the impact of the Government's attack on the international education sector.
"In the face of declining government funding, universities have relied on international student revenue to fund critical research activities. This is no longer a safe bet."
- Read UA's full report on the need to invest in PhD candidates in Australia
- Read UA's 2025 federal election statement
