“We are lucky to have so many world-class university researchers who are dedicated, every day, to making the world better and stronger,” Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said.

“Changes to the National Interest Test, announced today by the Australian Research Council, re-establish a system that assesses grants according to merit, judged by experts.

“Allocating precious taxpayer dollars according to the internationally accepted peer review process is a fundamental part of any robust research system.

“More research, not less, is needed to better understand the world we navigate each day and to predict the challenges we are presented with.

“Research underpins our progress, success and safety – producing the breakthroughs, new ideas and products that benefit every Australian, and returning $5 to the economy for every dollar invested.

“Universities make a significant contribution, performing nearly all pure research and almost half of all applied research undertaken in Australia.

“We look forward to further information of the exact nature of the revised National Interest Test and thank the government and the Australian Research Council for backing our researchers and the vital work they undertake on behalf of the nation.”