INFFER demonstrates outstanding impact

A key aim of our INFFER work is to have an impact on the way that environmental decision-making happens in Australia and beyond. At times it feels like a hard slog, so it’s nice to receive acknowledgement that we may in fact be making a real difference!

A few months back we made a submission to the ‘Excellence in Innovation for Australia’ trial, conducted by the Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN) and Group of Eight (Go8) universities, along with the University of Newcastle, Charles Darwin University and the University of Tasmania. The aim of the trial was to identify and demonstrate the contribution that high quality research has made to the economic, social, cultural and environmental benefit of society.

The results have just been announced and we’re delighted to see our work recognised for outstanding impact.

Out of 165 submissions, INFFER was one of 24 highlighted in the report as “the best”, while out of 42 submissions in the environment category, we were one of only 4 (or maybe 6, depending on what they considered to be environment) highlighted as one of “the best”.

In releasing the report, Chair of the Excellence Innovation Fund, Philip Marcus Clark AM noted … “In Australia today, addressing the decline in national productivity growth is arguably the most significant economic challenge we face. Numerous studies have highlighted the role of research and innovation as key drivers of productivity and economic growth. That is why good research which has significant impact is a great investment. Australia already makes a very significant investment in our world class university system, and in the research conducted by our universities. Taxpayers and governments are entitled to require evidence that research dollars are well spent.”

Download a copy of the report [3MB] or to learn more about the trial visit the Group of 8 website.