EU and Australia ramping up a scientific and research partnership spanning decades.

The EU and Australia successfully conclude negotiations on Australia’s association to Horizon Europe, the EU's flagship €93.5 billion research and innovation funding programme.

WHY IT MATTERS

Europe has been Australia’s leading scientific partner for over three decades, with joint research on climate science, health, digital technologies, and space.

Horizon Europe is the world’s largest research and innovation fund and is open to Australian researchers, offering unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, resources, and visibility.

WHAT’S DRIVING IT?

Australia stands as an important strategic partner for the European Union. Both regions share priorities in climate, sustainability, health, and digital transitions, with a robust bilateral relations.

The foundation of this collaboration was laid in 1994 with the signing of the Agreement on Science and Technology Cooperation.

LOOKING AHEAD

From January 2027, under transitional arrangements, Australian entities will have direct, routine access to EU funding under Pillar II of Horizon Europe on equal terms with EU Member States.