Brussels:The European Union and Australia have signed an agreement facilitating the participation of Australian researchers and organizations in Horizon Europe, the EU's premier research and innovation program.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the agreement was signed in Brussels by European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva and Australia's Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Tim Ayres.
This collaboration allows Australia to engage in Horizon Europe's £52.4 billion Pillar II, which supports research projects in fields such as health, climate, energy, and digital technologies. The agreement also enables Australian participants to access parts of the program open to non-EU countries, including the Excellent Science pillar and the Innovative Europe pillar, subject to specific conditions.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating that it reflects the trust and shared values between the EU and Australia. She emphasized the potential of this partnership to transform exceptional research into practical solutions, enhance resilience, and contribute to building a safer, more prosperous world.
Australian researchers and organizations will be able to join and lead international consortia and receive funding under similar terms as their EU counterparts. Starting in January 2027, transitional arrangements will allow Australian entities to apply to Pillar II calls and be evaluated as potential beneficiaries, with the association process expected to be finalized by mid-2027.
Horizon Europe is a major EU program with a budget of £93.5 billion for 2021-2027, aimed at promoting scientific excellence, addressing global challenges, and bolstering Europe's competitiveness. Australia becomes the 24th country associated with Horizon Europe, joining a list that includes nations such as Canada, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, the EU recently concluded negotiations with India for association to Horizon Europe.