A tool aiming to improve surgical accuracy for cancer patients is among 19 projects to receive over $40 million in funding from the Liberal National Government, under the Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Program.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the sixth CRC Projects selection round demonstrates the benefits of strong industry research partnerships.

“The Coalition is committed to supporting projects that solve real world problems, that’s why we’ve invested over $202 million into CRC Projects since 2016,” Minister Andrews said.

“These industry-led partnerships will improve the competitiveness, productivity and sustainability of Australian industries, and create more jobs.

“Small and medium businesses are the backbone of our economy and this investment will help businesses grow, find new market opportunities and bring significant returns to Australia.”

The successful projects include:

• $3 million for a tool which aims to improve surgical accuracy, when removing tumours in cancer patients
• $2.9 million for support tools and real-time insights which use artificial intelligence and machine learning to help farmers manage crop productivity
• $2.1 million for the development of a new transport device for donor hearts that will make more hearts available for more patients.

Nineteen successful partnerships submitted applications in the sixth project round, which was the most competitive to date with a record number of applications and grants being awarded.

As part of the $731 million CRC Program, the grants support short term industry-led partnerships to develop important new technologies, products and services that deliver tangible outcomes for Australia.

Funding is open to all industry sectors and research disciplines and is awarded through a competitive merit based selection process.

Minister Andrews' office: (02) 6277 7070

More information on the successful applicants and the CRC Program is available at:  https://www.business.gov.au/crc-p