Association with Horizon Europe would give Australian researchers access to a mega-fund which supports international collaborations on some of the world’s most complex and difficult-to-solve problems.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Officer Luke Sheehy said this would unleash a cycle of innovation through deeper partnerships and support Australia’s economic development and success.

“Europe recognises that innovation unlocks productivity growth and social and technological progress, and Horizon Europe is the vehicle for realising these gains,” Mr Sheehy said.

“If we’re serious about building a prosperous and productive economy, we need a seat at the table, particularly in a changing and more complex global environment.

“Growing geopolitical uncertainties are threatening to reshape our existing research alliances and we must adapt to remain ahead of the game.

“Our trade minister is in Paris this week restarting negotiations on a trade deal with the EU and I strongly encourage him to make Australia’s involvement in Horizon Europe a feature of those conversations.”

Mr Sheehy has been in Brussels this week to meet with representatives from the European Commission and the Australian Embassy to discuss the possibility of Australia joining Horizon Europe.

Canada and New Zealand are among the non-European Union countries associated with the program, but the Australian Government has so far been reluctant to join.

“There is a strong appetite in Europe to have Australia come on board,” Mr Sheehy said.

“This would remove the biggest roadblock for Australian researchers and scientists working with their European and other counterparts around the world. It’s mutually beneficial.

“For what is a relatively modest investment, our best and brightest would gain access to billions of dollars in potential funding to take their work to the next level.

“This would supercharge our research ecosystem and expand our portfolio of work, broadening our horizons as a nation and delivering significant economic benefits.”