WA Government Invests $44 Million in Cutting-Edge Research Infrastructure
The Western Australian Government has committed $44 million to enhance state-of-the-art research facilities. These facilities span across universities, government institutions, and industry research centres throughout the state.
This significant funding will support research in critical areas such as;
- Critical minerals
- Agriculture and food security
- Defence industries, and;
- Climate change.
“This new investment by the Cook Government provides our researchers with world-class tools to tackle some of the most pressing scientific challenges of today and tomorrow,” said WA Science Minister Stephen Dawson.
“By strengthening research and development in WA, our government is fostering innovation and driving economic growth,” Dawson added.
The funding aligns with WA’s 10-year science and technology plan. This plan aims to position the state as a global leader in renewable energy, critical minerals, health sciences, and digital technologies.
Key WA-based initiatives receiving funding include:
- $2.6 million for AuScope, supporting advanced tools for efficient mineral exploration and processing.
- $24 million for the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre, enabling breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, space exploration, and climate research.
- $2.5 million for the Australian National Fabrication Facility, upgrading facilities to advance projects like sensor technology for autonomous vehicles.
- $2.5 million for Bioplatforms Australia, equipping researchers to study agricultural proteins and develop plant varieties adapted to WA’s conditions.
- $1.5 million for the Integrated Marine Observing System, expanding coastal and ocean monitoring capabilities.
Additional funding will support initiatives like the Australian Plant Phenomics Network, the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network, the Australian Urban Research Infrastructure Network, and Microscopy Australia.
These investments aim to address critical challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food security, and urban and transport planning, helping to secure WA’s role as a leader in innovation and sustainability.