History

Research Australia was established in December 2000. It was formed as a result of recommendations in the Australian Government’s Strategic Review into Health and Medical Research, headed by Peter Wills AC.

A major outcome of the Wills Review was the doubling of the National Health and Medical Research Council budget for the five years 1999-2004. However, Australia still ranks well below the OECD average for expenditure on health and medical research. Consequently strengthening of the research sector is critical for Australia’s economic position in the global market place.

Establishment of Research Australia was made possible through the foresight and support of a select group of Foundation Members and Donors. This group provided significant funding over three years, enabling Research Australia to build a solid operational platform, secure members and to develop a diverse range of programs.

The early and ongoing support of the Australian Stock Exchange has been pivotal in the establishment of the Research Australia office in Sydney and the Victorian Government provided support to establish the Research Australia office in Melbourne. 

Health and Medical Research Strategic Review (Wills Report), 1998

Summary of Health and Medical Research Strategic Review (Wills Report), 1998