Infrastructure for the 21st century
Infrastructure is crucial for furthering research and education in Australia. The Government's $3 billion investment will focus on priorities identified in the 2008 Strategic Roadmap for Australian Research Infrastructure.
Building world‑class facilities
In recognition of the importance of infrastructure to Australia's universities and public research agencies, the Government will provide $3 billion from the Education Investment Fund (EIF) to fund priority infrastructure projects.
This builds on the significant capital investment already made, including $500 million for the Better Universities Renewal Fund in the 2008‑09 Budget, $1 billion in the 2008 Nation Building Package for vocational education and universities and $580 million for the first EIF funding round.
The new funding includes $1.8 billion for 53 immediate‑start projects that have been identified as vital to furthering education outcomes in Australia or building our research capability.
Investment in ready‑to‑go infrastructure is not only critical to increasing our future productivity but reflects that innovation and education are integral parts of the Government's response to the global financial crisis.
The new funding also includes $750 million for future EIF funding rounds including $500 million for a third round and $250 million to be partnered with up to $400 million allocated under the Clean Energy Initiative to form a $650 million Sustainability Round.
Summary of education and research infrastructure funding ($m)
a) Better Universities Renewal Fund.
b) 2008 Nation Building Package.
c) Includes $25 million in 2013‑14.