What is a CRC?

The Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Programme was established by the Australian Government in 1990 and is administered under the Department of Education, Science and Training. The objective of the program is 'to enhance Australia's industrial, commercial and economic growth through the development of sustained, user-driven, cooperative public-private research centres that achieve high levels of outcomes in adoption and commercialisation'.

The CRC Programme links researchers with industry to focus efforts on progress towards research that can be readily used and commercialised.

The close interaction between researchers and the users of research is a key feature of the program. Another feature is industry contribution to CRC education programs to produce industry-ready graduates.

There are currently 57 CRCs operating in six sectors: environment (14), agriculture and rural-based manufacturing (15), information and communication technology (5), mining and energy (7), medical science and technology (8) and manufacturing technology (8).

Further information:

DEST CRC Programme
www.crc.gov.au/Information/default.aspx

CRCAssociation
www.crca.asn.au

The CRC Association represents CRCs around Australia on issues of generic importance to CRCs and their operation, promotion of CRCs and the CRC Programme in general, and as a forum for members to share experiences and practices.

[Page last updated: 2009]