Backing research for real-world challenges
Cancer treatment that directly targets cancer cells, stronger drones to help fight bushfires and universal EV chargers were among 174 research projects announced under round two of Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) Ignite program.
More than $72.5 million in grants were awarded to projects in round two including:
- Cancer treatment that targets cancer cells – The University of South Australia is developing a next-generation cancer therapy that delivers powerful drugs directly to cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
- Universal EV chargers – RMIT is developing a charger that works with all major standards, making charging simpler.
- Stronger drones for bushfires - The University of Queensland is creating a new drone that can carry heavy fire suppressant loads, remain stable in strong winds, and fight bushfires faster.
These projects are part of a broader push to fast-track commercialisation of Australian research in critical areas like renewables, agriculture, medical technology, defence and critical minerals.
To date, more than $250 million in grants have been provided as part of the $1.6 billion AEA program.
Applications for round three of the $500,000 grants are now open and close on 4 March.
More information is available at https://www.aea.gov.au/researcher-applicant/grants
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:
“This investment will help our world-class universities and researchers to work on big ideas and projects that are good for our economy and good for Australia.
“This research will help support Australian industry to develop the solutions we need for the challenges ahead.”