Monday 21 December 2009

The Rudd Government is calling on the country's innovators to start preparing their applications for assistance from Commercialisation Australia - the Government's radical new approach to commercialising our best research.

"Commercialisation Australia has launched a range of new online and telephone resources as it gears up to receive applications from early January", said Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research.

"From today, potential applicants can access detailed information about how Commercialisation Australia can help them realise their innovation potential, including a useful pre-application checklist.

"Innovators can access the checklist and other resources on the new website, www.commercialisationaustralia.gov.au.

"Commercialisation Australia is about working in partnership with our skilled innovators to develop new technologies and support high-wage, high-skill jobs.

"I encourage all researchers, entrepreneurs and innovative firms to visit the website and get thinking about how this $196 million initiative could help turn their ideas into successful products and services."

Commercialisation Australia will take a hands-on approach to help bring ideas to market offering a range of tailored assistance measures. Measures include: specialist advice and services, financial support to engage experienced executives, and grants for proof of concept and early stage commercialisation activities.

All applications will be assessed through a competitive, merit based, selection process.

A Commercialisation Australia Hotline (13 22 56) has also been set up and is now operational to provide potential applicants with program information and advice.

Media contacts: Fiona Scott, Minister's Office, 0447 086 727 or Julie Glover, Department, 02 6213 7444 or 0432 260 912

For more information see the Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research's website.