Monash University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Enterprise) and Senior Vice President, Professor Robyn Ward AM, has welcomed today's historic announcements by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen: the conclusion of the Australia EU FTA, the Security and Defence Partnership and fast tracking of Australia’s association with Horizon Europe.
"Today's historic announcement about the Australia EU Free Trade Agreement, the establishment of an Australia EU Security and Defence Partnership, and progress toward Australia’s association with Horizon Europe represent a major strengthening of Australia’s partnership with Europe," Professor Ward said.
"For Monash University, these outcomes will deepen our engagement with Europe’s research and innovation ecosystem and enhance our capacity to deliver globally impactful research, education, and collaboration in support of shared economic prosperity."
Professor Ward said Australia's association with Horizon Europe would serve as a strategic multiplier for Australia's efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“Antimicrobial resistance is a rapidly escalating global health crisis with profound economic and societal consequences, requiring coordinated international action in research and innovation,” Professor Ward said.
“At Monash, we lead Australia’s response to antimicrobial resistance. While our European presence means we can participate in Horizon Europe projects – the world's largest research and innovation fund – without Australia's formal association to the program, we have less opportunity to scale clinical trials, or fully engage with major funding opportunities.
“Strengthening ties to Europe through the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement, alongside formal association with Horizon Europe, will unlock access to significant research investment opportunities. This includes substantial upcoming funding in antimicrobial resistance, while embedding Australian research more deeply in global programs and enhancing our capacity to lead internationally.
Professor Ward said the opportunities for Australia would extend far beyond isolated fields of research.
“For Australia, this is not only about supporting research in a globally significant field in antimicrobial resistance – it’s about positioning our nation at the centre of global innovation, commercialisation and strategic influence. Expanding access would accelerate translation of Australian-led discoveries, and deliver tangible benefits for people, industry and our health system.”
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