Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)

239,000.00

234,000.00

239,000.00

239,000.00

0.00

951,000.00

ENVIRONMENT, PLANNING
AND SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENTDIRECTORATE DEPARTMENTAL, RIVERINALOCAL LAND SERVICES(LLS), SOUTH EAST LOCALLAND SERVICES, CENTRALTABLELANDS LOCAL LANDSERVICES,COMMONWEALTHSCIENTIFIC AND
INDUSTRIAL RESEARCHORGANISATION

Australian Capital Territory
The Australian National University
LP230200957
Lindenmayer, ProfDavid B

Re-emergence of First Nations burning in contemporary grassy woodlands
This project aims to inform the re-emergence of First Nations burning in contemporary
endangered woodlands in south-eastern Australia by: (a) implementing a First Nations
led burning program, and in conjunction, (b) monitoring the relative ecologicalresponses, including those that influence fire-risk. The expected outcomes include new
evidence to guide contemporary First Nations burning programs implemented by our
project partners and others. The project will establish an interface between First Nations
knowledge and western science to achieve long-lasting multi-disciplinary and crosscultural outcomes. These include ecological and fire risk-mitigatory benefits andimportant cultural, social and economic benefits for First Nations peoples.

National Interest Test Statement
Prior to European colonisation, First Nations peoples used fire as a management tool in grassy woodlands in south-eastern Australia. These ecosystems are now endangered, with many degraded due to grazing, clearing and an
absence of traditional burning. The reintroduction of First Nations burning as a management tool is still emerging in south-eastern Australia, and therefore, research on the corresponding ecological responses is limited. In
contrast, this practice has been well-resourced and researched in Northern and Central Australia. This project aims to fill this research gap by (a) implementing a First Nations led burning program across contemporary grassy
woodlands in NSW and the ACT, and in conjunction, (b) monitoring the corresponding ecological outcomes. This will generate new knowledge needed to inform and support future First Nations burning programs implemented byour project partners and others. The project will generate an interface between First Nations knowledge and management, western science, and government on how to best support the re-emergence of First Nations burning incontemporary landscapes to maximise cross-cultural benefits and generate long-lasting legacy outcomes. This project is timely and should be prioritised for bushfire-risk mitigation, to conserve ecological values, and to provide
cultural, social and economic benefits for First Nations communities.
The Australian National University

239,000.00

234,000.00

239,000.00

239,000.00

0.00

951,000.00

Australian Capital Territory

239,000.00

234,000.00

239,000.00

239,000.00

0.00

951,000.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 1 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)179,217.00

180,567.00

179,921.00

0.00

0.00

539,705.00

New South Wales
Australian Catholic University
LP230200003
Scholes, A/Prof
Laura

Utilising Digital Texts to Foster Volitional, Proficient ReadersThis project responds to our partner schools’ deep concern about falling readinglevels – a national issue. It aims to investigate how to use digital texts to advance
student volitional, proficient reading – a strategy that has not yet been trialled.
Working collaboratively with our partner schools and the Centre for Literacy andSocial Justice in the UK, we aim to generate interdisciplinary knowledge to enrichreading pedagogies. Expected outcomes include an open access digital resource
for use in schools nationally to advance teaching expertise and student next
generation reading proficiencies, vital for lifelong learning and transition to study
and work in digital society.

CHANCELLOR STATECOLLEGE, PALMVIEWSTATE SECONDARYCOLLEGE, COOLUMSTATE HIGH SCHOOLNational Interest Test Statement
Reading is essential for learning. It remains pivotal to success in school, tertiary study and every-day life. The nature of reading however is changing markedly due to the acceleration of technology over the past 5 years. Skills toread and understand digital texts are now essential in society. Many teachers are eager to embrace digital texts in their daily practice and see potential in deploying students’ digital enthusiasm to foster volitional proficient readers.
The problem is teachers have identified a significant gap in their expertise and the availability of resources for utilising such texts in their classes. To address this problem, the interdisciplinary project team works with Australianteachers and the Centre for Literacy and Social Justice in the UK to generate evidence-based reading strategies utilising digital texts to advance reading volition and competence. Together we co-design, implement and evaluate
digital reading pedagogies in schools and generate an open access website with evidence-based resources for use in schools to empower teachers nationally. Through forums, policy briefings and workshops we will share findings
with Australian government departments to help them translate the findings into policy and targeted support to advance teaching expertise and young people’s next generation reading proficiencies, vital for lifelong learning andtransition to study and work in digital society.
LP230200847
Craven, Prof
Rhonda G

Deadly Teaching: Enhancing Indigenous School Attendance and Well-being

298,301.00

294,545.00

294,585.00

297,973.00

294,373.00

1,479,777.00

This project aims to significantly improve Indigenous students' school attendance,engagement and wellbeing. Indigenous students do not attend and engage inschool, nor achieve educational and wellbeing outcomes commensurate with theirnon-Indigenous peers leading to long-term poorer socio-economic and wellbeing
outcomes. This program will enable teachers to create a classroom culture where
engagement and attendance are normative, thus enabling students’ wellbeing.
Expected outcomes will be greater school engagement, attendance and wellbeing
for students; and teaching efficacy and job satisfaction. Benefits include enabling
Indigenous achievement, wellbeing and full potential; teacher retention; andAustralia’s socio-economic wellbeing.

WONNARUA NATIONABORIGINALCORPORATION,CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
NSW LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement
Indigenous students’ school attendance, engagement, and educational outcomes have for decades remained lower than for non-Indigenous students, particularly in regional areas. High teacher turnover in regional schools also
remains problematic. Engaging in school enables Indigenous students’ wellbeing and educational outcomes. This project will capitalise on research-demonstrated advances from overseas and the wisdom of Indigenous
communities to enhance teachers’ knowledge and skills in changing the classroom climate to a supportive environment that increases Indigenous students’ school attendance and engagement. This will enable student wellbeing
and educational outcomes; and teacher job satisfaction and retention. Society will benefit by closing the gap to enable Indigenous students to get the most out of schooling and life’s opportunities, increase teacher job satisfaction
and retention, meet Indigenous community needs, advance educational policy and practice, benefit economic productivity and growth, and add materially to strengthening the socio-economic fabric of Indigenous communities.
LP230201137

Game-Changers: Enablers of Indigenous University Students’ Success

Craven, ProfThis project aims to identify game-changers that enable Indigenous students tocomplete university capitalising upon research advances and a powerful synergy

216,778.00

255,528.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

262,500.00

246,359.00

258,288.00

1,239,453.00

WONNARUA NATIONABORIGINALCORPORATION

Page 2 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)
Rhonda G

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

of Indigenous and empirical methods. The project will generate new knowledge
about enablers of university completion, leveraging research-derived interventions,and Indigenous voice and agency. Expected outcomes include effective
interventions, university completion and associated socio-economic benefits, andwellbeing. Benefits include identifying drivers of university completion, designingeffective interventions, advancing data-driven Indigenous higher education policies
and practices, promoting Indigenous socio-economic wellbeing, and building
research capability and capacity.
National Interest Test Statement
Completing university is a game-changer for Indigenous Australia and a potent force for enabling full potential. Indigenous Australians are 3X more likely to be unemployed compared to non-Indigenous Australians but graduatingfrom university closes this gap completely. However, Indigenous university students do not complete university (53%) at the same rate as non-Indigenous students do (26%), a gap of 27%. Unfortunately, there is a significant lackof essential research leveraging advances in both Indigenous and Western scientific research to underpin effective intervention. This research provides an unprecedented opportunity to contribute to closing this gap by identifying
what works to enable Indigenous students to complete university and glean the long-term wide- ranging socio-economic benefits derived therefrom. The project is expected to produce measurable significant practical outcomes inenabling completion, wellbeing, and employment; research-derived policy; and conceptual advances and new knowledge about what works of relevance globally. The project also will deliver robust data- driven evidence for crosssectoral policies, and enhanced research collaboration, capacity, and training for Indigenous students and communities. This is expected to yield innovation in enabling Indigenous completion; add materially to strengthening thewellbeing and socio-economic fabric of Indigenous communities and Australia; and advance global innovation in Indigenous higher education.
Australian Catholic University

694,296.00

730,640.00

737,006.00

544,332.00

552,661.00

3,258,935.00

247,917.00

232,867.00

202,807.00

0.00

0.00

683,591.00

Macquarie University
LP230201022
Cao, Prof Longbing

Ethical Enterprise Representations for Personalised Sustainable Finance
The rapidly evolving field of sustainable finance requires responsible services,
satisfying environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria. This requires
disruptive FinTech innovations - ethical enterprise learning from whole-of-businessfinancial data, however the corresponding valid theories and industrial solutions
are unavailable. We aim to develop forward-looking ESG-integrated enterpriselearning theories and tools to represent and analyse entire businesses and data
and develop novel ESG ratings and ESG-efficient investment solutions. These will
advance knowledge and capabilities in enterprise AI and sustainable finance,transform financial services, and enhance Australia’s leadership in FinTech
research and innovation.

FUTU SECURITIES(AUSTRALIA) LTD

National Interest Test Statement
Sustainable financial services play a pivotal role in today’s economic, social and environmental developments, where there are critical gaps in building an enterprise understanding of complex data, environmental, social andgovernance (ESG) factors, clients and interactions across business lines for responsible and sustainable investing, risk, decisions and services. Hence, this project aims to address these demands and challenges by developing
forward-looking AI-driven FinTech innovations, capabilities and a talent pipeline to provide automated and ethical enterprise AI to enable smart sustainable financial innovations. This will address multiple national science andresearch priorities including environmental change and cybersecurity. It will also result in significant national benefits including enhancing Australia’s leadership in the rapidly growing ESG, AI and sustainable finance areas byproducing a number of submissions to top-tier venues; transforming smart sustainable financial services to achieve sustainability goals (e.g., carbon footprint, sustainable growth) and personalised and sustainable investment andfinancial services; uplifting enterprise innovations and competitive advantage in responsible and ethical AI for interpretable evidence-based transformation and to lift productivity. The LP’s multi-disciplinary research and linkage
nature will nurture significant new research, innovation and training opportunities bridging computer science and finance.
Macquarie University

247,917.00

232,867.00

202,807.00

0.00

0.00

683,591.00

The University of New South Wales* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 3 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)LP230200283

159,897.00

167,311.00

114,325.00

62,759.00

0.00

504,292.00

SOUTH AUSTRALIANMUSEUM, HISTORY
TRUST OF SOUTH
AUSTRALIA, NUKUNUWAPMA THURA(ABORIGINALCORPORATION) RNTBC,KAURNA YERTAABORIGINALCORPORATION RNTBC,NARUNGGA NATIONABORIGINALCORPORATION, POINT
PEARCE ABORIGINALCORPORATION

Yip, Dr Andrew S

Co-designing Aboriginal Digital Museology Frameworks in the Southern
Gulfs
Museums around the world are increasingly scrutinised for how they represent
First Nations peoples. Digital practices offer new ways to record and exhibit
cultural knowledges, but they can also exacerbate existing biases. Throughcollaboration with Kaurna, Narungga and Nukunu peoples from Australia’sSouthern Gulf Country, this project aims to explore how a co-designed approach todigital museology can provide meaningful ways to record and share First Nations
stories, addressing significant gaps in museum practices. Its outcomes will include
new interactive tools for museums and communities to collect and interpret culturaldata. Its benefits include structural solutions for museums and increased First
Nations institutional agency.

National Interest Test Statement
Through collaboration with Aboriginal peoples from Australia’s Southern Gulf Country, this project will design new culturally appropriate digital tools for Aboriginal communities to work with museums to record and present their
histories. Museums worldwide have an obligation to tell First Nations stories. However, outdated museum systems and methods of recording data have limited institutional awareness of, and access to, First Nations knowledges
and experiences. In collaboration with museums in Adelaide and Aboriginal partner organisations in the Spencer and St Vincent Gulfs of South Australia, researchers will develop digital tools that address these shortcomings andidentify novel ways for community partners to record lived experiences. The project will produce new technologies and protocols for museums across Australia and internationally to work with First Nations communities to recordand analyse digital data. It will provide tools for interacting with data that enable its use across divergent digital platforms, including desktop, mobile and on-site systems. It will lead to enhanced digital methods of preserving,collecting and exhibiting Aboriginal heritages that will be deployed in public exhibitions in both state institutions and community organisations.
LP230200851
Michael, Dr Aron

Programmable active surface for next generation optical switch engines

154,536.00

157,661.00

168,901.00

0.00

0.00

481,098.00

The global power consumption of data centers is set to exceed 3000TWh by 2030
if electrical switches are continued to be used. Electrical switches must be
replaced by optical switches to reduce this exuberant power consumption. But, thedominant optical switch technology, pioneered by Finisar Australia, has power,
speed, and mass production issues. This project aims to develop novel opticalswitch technology using lead titanate (PT) films on silicon to address the issues. It
is expected to generate new knowledge in optical properties and microfabricationof PT-based films on silicon. The outcome will benefit Finisar to improve its
product, capitalize on the huge market opportunities in data centers, and innovate
new display technologies.

FINISAR AUSTRALIA PTY
LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement
The project aims to develop the next generation optical switch technology using programmable pixelated solid-state active surface. The new technology will address the power, speed, and mass production issues associated withthe existing Liquid Crystal based technology, pioneered by Finisar Australia, that dominated the world market. As the technology will be developed in Australia, it has a potential to lead to a dedicated semiconductor foundry inAustralia for large scale production in line with the Australian Government National Manufacturing Priority scheme. As such, the project will benefit Finisar Australia, the partner organization, commercially by enhancing its productquality, reducing cost, giving competitive advantage over its major competitors, capitalizing on new emerging market opportunities in data centers and driving innovation in display technologies. From market point of view, data
centres will open up US$17Billion market opportunity in the next 5 years. The market for display technologies is projected to grow to US$2Billion by 2030. The commercial benefit to Finisar will have a direct flow-on effect toAustralian economy.
LP230200929
Gwilt, Prof Alison

Redesigning Clothing Waste Using a Circular Design Framework

52,074.00

102,055.00

The project aims to develop an innovative circular design framework to map
pathways to convert waste clothing into new products. It will do this through theapplication of a novel design process using redesign activities to create* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

66,344.00

0.00

0.00

220,473.00

ANGLICARE SA LTD.,
JAMFACTORYCONTEMPORARY CRAFT& DESIGN

Page 4 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)commercial solutions. Collaborating with our partners AnglicareSA andJamFactory, it demonstrates how resource conservation can be increased byempirically testing original concepts for clothing, textiles and objects that advancesocial innovation. It transforms our understanding of textile waste and how it canbe creatively reused in small-scale production runs with outcomes that optimize
the social enterprise model to benefit local community and business.

INCORPORATEDNational Interest Test Statement
The Project provides a circular design framework to creatively reuse clothing waste for new value-added products. Circular economy principles underpin the National Waste Policy Action Plan, which sets out a series of targets toaddress waste in Australia. In 2021 clothing was added to the Minister’s Product Stewardship Priority List. The project supports Australia’s increased resource conservation by robustly testing repair, refurbishment and repurposing
strategies that create novel commercial solutions. Through expanding and detailing the creative scope for designing with discarded materials, it supports a social enterprise to build a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration acrossits clothing sorting and product manufacturing teams. The outcome will also benefit clothing brands, designer-makers, and charitable organisations, as each involve processes to keep materials in use that can be enhanced througha circular design framework.
LP230201054
Zheng, A/Prof Min

Zero emission nitrogen removal process

292,052.00

291,858.00

291,858.00

291,858.00

296,858.00

1,464,484.00

Eliminating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions marks a transformative shift in thewastewater industry. This project aims to capitalise on our recent breakthrough todevelop a wastewater process that operates with near-zero GHG emissions. This
project assembles a multidisciplinary team to conduct extensive laboratory
investigations on this process, glean advanced insights crucial for processoptimisation, and also implement comprehensive testing in real field conditions.
Two major Australian water utilities partners—jointly servicing about one-fourth ofthe country's population—will commit to adopting this process, to ensure
consistent delivery of tangible, long-term economic, environmental, and social
benefits to Australian communities.

MELBOURNE WATERCORPORATION, WATERCORPORATION

National Interest Test Statement
In Australia, water utilities have set ambitious targets to achieve zero-emission wastewater services by 2030. However, these objectives face hurdles due to substantial greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide,
generated in the traditional nitrogen removal process. Leveraging recent discoveries in iron-mediated microbial reactions, this project aims to pioneer a novel technology that drastically minimises nitrous oxide emissions to nearzero. Additionally, it maximises bioenergy recovery by converting wastewater organics into biogas, while reducing chemical and energy consumption by up to 80%. Conducting real-field process investigations, this project
anticipates demonstrating the effectiveness and scalability of this technology and seeks to establish a benchmark for global adoption of the technology in wastewater treatment facilities. Collaborating closely with two major
Australian water utilities—jointly serving about a quarter of the country's population—this project promises substantial benefits for Australian communities and aligns with their pursuit of economically and environmentally
sustainable wastewater services.
LP230201076

Meta-expertise: A new class of human expert for responsible AI oversight

165,084.00

284,138.00

Recent advances in Artificial Intelligence can efficiently protect the AustralianWhite, A/Prof David
passport from identity fraud and enhance identity management across society. To
meet the major global challenge of responsible AI, effective oversight by humanoperators is essential, but there is no scientific basis for defining this role. This
project aims to develop understanding of how perception and cognition combine in
identification decisions, to define a new workforce of ‘meta-experts’ that oversee
face recognition technology. Outcomes include new individual difference tests,
targeted training and model face identification evidence reports. Benefits include
enhanced trust in government and security of Australian identities across sectorsof society.

175,652.00

159,624.00

76,672.00

861,170.00

DEPARTMENT OFFOREIGN AFFAIRS AND
TRADENational Interest Test Statement* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 5 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

The task of deciding whether two images are of the same unfamiliar face is a critical component of modern identity management systems. This check safeguards against identity fraud which cost Australians over $3.1 billion dollars
in 2019 and is often linked to national and international organised crime. Since 2011, the Australian Passport Office has used Facial Recognition Technology to protect the Australian Passport from identity fraud, and use of thistechnology to authenticate identity of citizens has expanded across all sectors of society with the introduction of the government-provided Identity Matching Service. Robust human oversight of this technology is essential to ensure
accurate and equitable outcomes for government and citizens, but the role of this new workforce has not been defined. This project will develop a new knowledge framework that will support selection and training of this workforce,
define the inherent requirements for the job, and the form of face identification evidence they should produce. Expected benefits include improved accuracy, human oversight, and explanation of face identity decisions – supporting
equitable and secure identity management across sectors of society. This project will also contribute more generally to defining the role of Australian workers in an era of Artificial Intelligence.
The University of New South Wales

823,643.00

1,003,023.00

817,080.00

514,241.00

373,530.00

3,531,517.00

168,680.00

171,440.00

54,400.00

0.00

0.00

394,520.00

The University of Newcastle
LP230201048
Wang, Prof
Shanyong

A new intelligent control model for tunnel boring machines
Aims: This project will develop a new intelligent tunnelling optimisation control
model for TBMs based on an experimental and numerical study of rockfragmentation by drilling bits. Significance: The proposed method will provide anovel tool for engineers who wish to understand the fundamental mechanism oftunnelling in complicated rock mass of TBM and optimize TBM performance.
Expected Outcomes: A series of charts and design recommendations will be
developed, which have the potential to result in reduced infrastructure costs.
Benefits: This technique will provide geotechnical, mining and transport
engineering firms in Australia with a competitive edge in ensuring the safety ofunderground openings locally and nationally.

CHINA RAILWAY
ENGINEERINGEQUIPMENT GROUP CO.,LTD.

National Interest Test Statement
Most major geotechnical, mining or transport infrastructure projects that involve the construction of tunnels or new mines are likely to use tunnel boring machines (TBMS) for rock excavation. This is a potentially dangerous process
as current technologies fail to accurately predict the performance of TBMs in complicated rock masses, which means that firms cannot implement measures to minimize the cost and scheduling problems associated with rockexcavation. This project will develop a novel tool and design recommendations for engineers who wish to understand the fundamental mechanism of tunnelling in complicated rock masses. Use of these tools has the potential toenable some of Australia’s biggest industries to optimise TBM performance and reduce costs, and provide geotechnical, mining and transport engineering firms in Australia with a competitive edge in ensuring the safety ofunderground openings locally and nationally. This project aims to create benefits to the economy, ensure the safety of the workforce and contribute to the long-term viability of the Australian transport network and tunnellingindustry. The outcomes of the research will be shared with the relevant industries through industry trade journal articles and presentations to partners to ensure this technology is widely available to open new development avenues
and increase construction opportunities for Australian businesses.
The University of Newcastle

168,680.00

171,440.00

54,400.00

0.00

0.00

394,520.00

150,000.00

165,000.00

180,000.00

0.00

0.00

495,000.00

The University of Sydney
LP230200712
Merklein, Dr Moritz

Convert and compress: on-chip photonic processing for resilient RF
systems

CRITICAL FREQUENCYDESIGN

This project aims to develop a novel radio frequency (RF) photonic signal
processor harnessing integrated analogue photonic signal processing to frequency
convert and compress any RF signal across the entire spectrum within the receiver
amplitude and frequency range. The project will create new knowledge in on-chip
nonlinear optics and photonic integration. Expected outcomes of this project are
new photonic-chip based systems with unprecedented frequency range,
bandwidth, speed, latency and ultra-low size, weight, and power requirements.
This compact system will play a vital role for situational awareness, and high data
rate communication systems for defence and civilian use-cases.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 6 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

National Interest Test Statement
This project develops critical capability in photonics, radio frequency (RF) photonics, signal processing and photonic chip integration. The key research gap it addresses is the lack of wide bandwidth RF signal processing
capabilities covering tens of GHz. Addressing this gap and establishing sovereign RF processing capability is essential for Australia for managing and maintaining the integrity of the electromagnetic spectrum and operating next
generation systems for high data rate communication, smart sensor networks and radar systems for situational awareness, to protect critical defence assets and ensure border security. Working with the Partner Organisation will
ensure the developed technology is fit-for-purpose with a strong end-user focus. The ubiquitous use-case of the developed technology will be perfectly suited for translation outside of the research lab and grow a sovereign
Australian high-tech industry. Translation of the project outcomes aligns with the goal of strengthening sovereign advanced manufacturing and develop on-shore semiconductor manufacturing. Australia has a unique opportunity to
become a key player in photonic integration and this project will provide the foundation for an advanced photonic chip-based signal processing architecture ready for commercialisation. This project will train a new generation ofphotonics experts at the interface of engineering and physics within a strongly growing field.
LP230200761

Rental vulnerability in Australia

220,743.00

291,371.00

295,990.00

74,755.00

0.00

882,859.00

Rental vulnerability means households face difficulties accessing and keeping
Troy, Dr Laurence J
affordable, appropriate rental housing. The project aims to measure and map
rental vulnerability in Australia, and understand its drivers and lived experience.
Through innovate methodologies combining narrative-based qualitative data,
quantitative rental system datasets, together with digital mapping, this project will
generate an Australian Rental Vulnerability Index (RVI) and advance ourunderstanding of rental vulnerability’s complex multi-dimensional nature andspatial distribution. The RVI will provide a powerful publicly accessible tool forpartner tenant organisations as they plan and deliver services and advocate forrenters across Australia.

TENANTS QUEENSLAND
LTD, TENANTS' UNIONOF NSW CO-OPERATIVE
LIMITED, TENANTS
VICTORIA LTD, CIRCLE
GREEN COMMUNITYLEGAL, TENANTS UNION
OF TASMANIA INC,DARWIN COMMUNITYLEGAL SERVICE INC

National Interest Test Statement
More Australians living in rental housing, and problems of access and affordability are deepening. This research will provide important and timely new knowledge about the vulnerability of households to rental housing problems.
For the project's partner organisations - six peak tenants' organisations from across Australia - the research will be a powerful tool for planning and delivering tenants' advice services, and an evidence base for reforming rental
housing policy and law. Employing a new methodology that shows the multidimensional nature of rental vulnerability, the project will show how rental vulnerability is constituted in clusters of indicators (such as rental stress,
unemployment, and disability), and how rental vulnerability distributed geographically throughout Australia. The currently untapped client data of the partners will be deidentified and drawn on, along with other unpublished tenancy
tribunal data, and interviews with local renters and stakeholders, to create a comprehensive new resource on rental housing problems. Published as an interactive online map, the Australian Rental Vulnerability Index (RVI) will befreely available to the public. Detailed findings and implications for rental housing policy will be discussed with service funders and other stakeholders in forums in each partner's state/territory. The project's wider significance as apiece of cutting edge data communication will be discussed at an international workshop and in scholarly outputs.
LP230200886
Wei, Dr Li

Enable Sustainable Chemical Production by Multi-scale ElectrodeEngineering

182,000.00

182,000.00

This project aims to realise efficient and sustainable hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)
production from decentralised electrolysers by engineering key electrolyser
components at different scales. Efficient catalysts will be obtained from innovative
chemical and physical methods and fabricated into an electrode with improved
mass transfer efficiency. It will couple with a property-optimised solid porous
electrolyte to assemble an electrolyser that can produce pure H2O2 solution withhigh energy efficiency. The project can also provide transferable design guidelines
to other similar processes, advancing sustainable chemical production fromelectrolysers and helping Australia secure a leading position in global sustainable
technologies.

50,900.00

0.00

0.00

414,900.00

TOHOKU UNIVERSITY,AUSTSUN PTY LTD, SMSSCITECH PTY LTD, DR
DAVID FREDERICKFLETCHER

National Interest Test Statement
The sustainable production of hydrogen peroxide, a green oxidiser and disinfectant, from renewable electricity-powered electrolysers provides an attractive zero-emission alternative to the traditional production method. The
electrolysers can be deployed at the end user’s premises to produce hydrogen peroxide of suitable concentration from air and water for direct consumption, eliminating the safety risks of handling traditional concentrated products.
However, the electrolyser’s unsatisfactory energy efficiency prevents this promising technology from fast expansion. With the partnership between universities and Australian industries, this project aims to improve the electrolyser* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 7 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

performance by engineering key electrolyser components at different scales. An efficient electrolyser will be demonstrated and tested under real conditions. It provides a convenient supply of hydrogen peroxide that will benefit
various applications, for example, sanitation in medical facilities and households and water treatment in regional Australia to secure clean water accessibility. The new knowledge generated from this project is transferable to otherzero-emission chemical electro-production processes, accelerating the fast expansion of these clean technologies in Australia and, ultimately, boosting Australia’s manufacturing sector and helping Australia become a global leader
in emerging sustainable technologies.
LP230200894

The Cost of Living (Well): A Sociological Study of Cost, Value, and Care

53,596.00

67,670.00

82,611.00

0.00

0.00

203,877.00

CARERS NSW LIMITEDThis project aims to uncover the full extent and consequences of rising out-ofKenny, Dr Katherine
pocket healthcare costs in Australia. Out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) often come asEa rude shock and can lead to financial distress, compromised care, increased
inequalities, and significant suffering. Taking a person-centred, strengths-based
approach, this project will identify how people in need of high-cost care, theircarers, and their healthcare providers navigate the difficulties posed by the new
OOP economy of healthcare. Expected outcomes include publicly accessible
resources and targeted policy and practice advice that will provide significant
benefit by reducing the burdens, suffering, and harms caused by high OOPCs inAustralia's current healthcare system.
National Interest Test Statement
The problem of out-of-pocket costs (OOPCs) in the Australian healthcare system has reached crisis level resulting, most recently, in the NSW Government’s Special Commission of Inquiry into Healthcare Funding (August 2023)
and the Federal Government Strengthening Medicare Taskforce (July 2022). However, to date, economic approaches have predominated and little attention has been paid to the lived experiences of health, illness, cost, and care.
Mobilising diverse patient, family, and service-provider perspectives, this project will create a person-centred qualitative evidence base detailing the full extent and consequences of the escalating OOPC crisis. This will underpin thedevelopment of publicly accessible and partner relevant resources to advance the cultural conversation about the costs of care and provide crucial input for policy and practice improvement. In this way, the project will directly
contribute to Australia’s Science and Research Priority of ‘Health’, which seeks to build healthy and resilient communities throughout Australia by improving outcomes and providing higher value care. The project will yieldconsiderable social and cultural benefits by facilitating more open conversations about the costs of care; informing evidence-based resources to support and guide these conversations, and; reducing the harms and suffering
caused by OOPCs in the Australian healthcare system.
LP230200954

Awake animal imaging: A transformative capability for second generation
PET

97,003.00

101,371.00

53,314.00

0.00

0.00

251,688.00

BRUKER PTY LTD

Meikle, Prof Steven
Recent advances in biomedical engineering have led to sophisticated devices forR
imaging the brains of laboratory animals. However, a major limitation of thesedevices is that the animal must be anaesthetised to keep the head still whichinterferes with the chemical signals in the brain we aim to measure. The aim of thisproject is to overcome this technological barrier by developing a fully enclosed
animal cradle with integrated motion tracking and correction, thus enabling awake
animals to be imaged in current generation scanners. The technology we create
will open up new capability to study chemical signalling in the brain and generate
new knowledge about the mechanisms underpinning the brain’s responses to achanging environment.
National Interest Test Statement
The Australian Government, in partnership with universities, has made significant investments through the National Imaging Facility (NIF) into the latest, cutting-edge devices capable of imaging the brain at high spatial resolution. It
is critical that, as imaging researchers, we maximise the value of the scientific information extracted from these technologies. The NIF small animal PET system at USyd has outstanding performance. However, like all NIF PET
systems it requires the animal to be anaesthetised which limits the information we can obtain about the functioning brain when the animal is exposed to changes in its environment (e.g. a drug or environmental stimulus). Our
research will create new capability that enables awake animal imaging to be performed on PET systems, thus ensuring their scientific potential is fully realised. This new technology will provide the Australian advanced
manufacturing sector with a competitive edge by creating a powerful tool for evaluating neuroactive drugs in animal models. In the long term, it will lead to economic and health benefits for Australians by opening up new crossdisciplinary avenues for understanding the causes and developing novel therapies for mental health conditions, such as dementia, depression and drug abuse. We will promote this research and its long term benefits to the wider
community via traditional and new media, public webinars and community forums.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 8 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)LP230200972

278,400.00

279,700.00

279,550.00

0.00

0.00

837,650.00

INSAMO SOUTH PTY LTD

Reprogrammed cyclic peptides as next-generation targeted protein
degraders

Payne, Prof Richard
This project aims to pioneer a technology for the discovery of bioactive peptidesJcalled PEPTACs. These innovative circular peptide molecules will be capable ofinteracting with two proteins simultaneously, leading to the targeted elimination of
specific proteins within a cell. Expected outcomes include the delivery of atransformative method for the rapid discovery of bioactive molecules, significant
advances in artificial intelligence for medicinal chemistry applications and thetraining of industry-ready early career researchers. This will provide significant
benefits to Australia including strengthening our growing pharmaceutical andbiotechnology sectors.
National Interest Test Statement
This project will establish a cutting-edge technology for the discovery of high value bioactive molecules that will have wide-reaching application in fundamental research and in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and agriculturalindustries. Many molecules currently used as drugs or pesticides are not as specific as we would like them to be and so have undesirable properties. Our new technology platform will allow the design and discovery of more specificmolecules. This platform will also allow new disease causing proteins to be targeted in the future. Our work will be of significant interest to the Australian biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors and will contribute to theadvanced manufacturing national science and research priority. It will also establish critical capacity and advanced interdisciplinary skills in the rapidly growing fields of artificial intelligence, bioactive molecule discovery andmanufacturing in Australia by training industry-ready early career researchers.
LP230200977
Huang, Prof Dr Jun

Micro-structured zeolites for direct carbon capture for high humidity air

300,000.00

300,000.00

300,000.00

0.00

0.00

900,000.00

This project aims to develop hydrophobic zeolites to prevent water adsorption andselectively capture CO2 from high-humidity air from ventilation and coolingsystems in energy-intensive industries. By optimizing zeolite hydrophobicity anddesigning high-performance carbon capture processes via in situ nanoscalecharacterization, the project will significantly improve the efficiency and costeffectiveness of direct air capture. The outcome will overcome current limitations incarbon capture, reducing investment and operating costs, and facilitating its
successful deployment in industrial applications. This research aligns with
Australia's 2030 climate change targets by providing a breakthrough solution for
reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SEAGULL COOLINGTECHNOLOGIES ASIA
PACIFIC SDN. BHD.

National Interest Test Statement
This project aims to develop hydrophobic zeolites for enhanced direct air capture in energy-intensive industries, targeting the critical challenge of water adsorption and selective CO2 capture from high-humidity air. The expected
outcome is a significant reduction of energy consumption and overall capture costs, making carbon capture commercially viable worldwide. By providing cost-effective capture technology, the project enhances the competitivenessof energy-intensive sectors by reducing their carbon footprint and operational expenses. It supports the growth of clean energy industries, driving economic prosperity. The decarbonization of vital sectors like steel, cement, andchemicals benefits Australia's economy. The energy-efficient CO2 removal supports carbon reduction targets and promotes public awareness of sustainable practices. Industry collaboration facilitates the integration of hydrophobic
zeolite based capture process into existing cooling systems, improving carbon capture efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This research has the potential to bring transformative change to Australia's fight against climate change andcontribute to a sustainable future. The adoption and widespread deployment of this breakthrough technology will be fostered through collaboration, regulatory support, and knowledge dissemination, supporting sustainable goals
and emission reduction targets.
LP230200997
Dehghani, Prof
FaribaElastic Biopolymer for Designing Surgical Sutures

263,200.00

277,100.00

This project aims to address the shortcoming of a class of degradable biopolymers
by the application of polymer chemistry and surface functionalisation. It is
expected to render these polymers suitable for the creation of sutures using an
innovative methodology. Expected outcomes encompass fortifying collaborations
with industry, the development of technologies and products for additive
manufacturing, the establishment of local sutures production capabilities, and a* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

298,775.00

0.00

0.00

839,075.00

ECOPHA BIOTECH PTY.
LTD.

Page 9 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

reduced dependence on the global supply chain. The expected advantages
include proprietary products for industry partner, the enhancement of Australian
export potential, and a reduced risk of suture failure in future veterinary andmedical surgical procedures.
National Interest Test Statement
The global pandemic has highlighted the susceptibility of supply chains, underscoring the strategic importance of establishing local manufacturing capabilities. Australia's innovative MedTech industry is well-positioned to take aglobal lead; however, maintaining competitiveness necessitates the establishment of a reliable local manufacturing facility. This project addresses this challenge by creating an innovative functional suture using locally sourced
degradable biopolymers. Employing advanced polymer chemistry and surface functionalisation technology in conjunction with processable biodegradable polymers, the project aims to produce sutures with diverse sizes anddesirable properties. This includes introducing customisable absorption characteristics and reducing the risk of infections. The technology holds broad applications across various surgical procedures, encompassing veterinary andmedical fields such as cardiovascular, neurological, ophthalmic, and wound applications. The outcomes of this project will significantly benefit Australian small and medium enterprises, particularly in the competitive and volatile
MedTech sector characterised by narrow profit margins. As the global demand for new health supplies continues to grow, the successful completion of this project has the potential to enhance the competitiveness of Australian
research. Additionally, it is poised to contribute to the development of proprietary products with prospects for commercialisation.
LP230201092
Lenzen, Prof
ManfredSustainable and secure future energy pathways for Australia

103,088.00

108,534.00

111,327.00

0.00

0.00

322,949.00

This project aims to investigate energy pathways to facilitate Australia’s transition
to a net-zero economy, whilst generating jobs and incomes, and building resilienceagainst future geopolitical and climate change. It will generate new knowledge by
creating an innovative Integrated Assessment Model for Australia, resulting in aset of sustainable and secure energy pathways. Outcomes include the Australian
Energy Transitions Lab, a collaborative research platform for scientists, industry
and policy-makers for energy system modelling. This will provide significant
benefits, such as to enhance the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ ability to
inform national policy, and to position Australia as a global leader in climatechange research.

DEPARTMENT OF
PRIMARY INDUSTRIESNational Interest Test Statement
The project aims to find future energy pathways for Australia, that provide energy security, jobs and incomes, net zero emissions, resilience under future geopolitical and climate change. The project addresses a gap in our
understanding of the opportunities and risks in transitioning to new energy systems. It will investigate questions such as: What does a future energy system look like if it is to supply secure energy to Australians; meet our net zeroclimate target; create jobs, household incomes and export revenues; and be resilient against increasing political instability, climate change and conflict in the world? By developing an innovative Integrated Assessment Model, thisproject will create the Australian Energy Transitions Lab, a collaborative research platform for scientists, industry and policy-makers for energy system modelling. The new knowledge generated in this project will show us where toinvest in energy infrastructure, how to turn Australia into a self-reliant renewable energy powerhouse, and how to build resilience against future economic shocks, conflict, and supply-chain disruptions. It will enhance the NSW
Department of Primary Industries’ ability to undertake research and inform national policy. Designing the new Integrated Assessment Model to align with international standards will enable Australian researchers to develop futurescenarios for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and position Australia as a global leader in climate research.
The University of Sydney

1,648,030.00

1,772,746.00

1,652,467.00

74,755.00

0.00

5,147,998.00

104,853.00

114,749.00

114,749.00

0.00

0.00

334,351.00

University of Technology Sydney
LP230200030
Yang, A/Prof Yang

Multimaterial 3D Printed Antenna Arrays for Intelligent Wireless Systems

SPARK3D PTY LTD

The project aims to build a new class of 3D-printed antenna array designs using
conductive and dielectric multi-material 3D printing solutions. It will drive theadvancement of knowledge for rapidly prototyping smart antenna arrays forintelligent wireless communication and sensing applications. Low-cost and highperformance 3D-printed antennas will be delivered by addressing these challenges
and providing a solution that combines technology, cost-effectiveness, andaccessibility. The project has the potential to contribute to antenna systems,* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 10 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

microwave electronics, electronic packaging and manufacturing. The implications
extend beyond the technical aspects, impacting Australia's broader innovation andentrepreneurship ecosystem.
National Interest Test Statement
For 5G and beyond, compact beam-forming mobile antennas will be extensively used in various mobile applications, including personal health care, device-to-device communications, radar sensing for unmanned vehicles, andintelligent transport. The intensively increasing exploding demand from many industrial sectors is expected to increase market growth considerably. The project will enable the industry partner to meet predicted future performancerequirements demand in many ways, linking to 5G, 6G, the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, enabling Australia. The project will undoubtedly allow our nation to take early advantage of millimetre wave technology fornext-generation communications and consumer applications. The project's successful delivery will help maintain Australia’s pioneering status in the global wireless industry into the future.
LP230200824
Li, Dr Jun

Eco-friendly Ultra-High Performance Rubberised Concrete

74,000.00

74,000.00

74,000.00

0.00

0.00

222,000.00

To reduce the carbon footprint of cement production in the construction industry,
the development of low-carbon construction materials made from less Portland
cement is a national priority. This project aims to replace natural aggregates in
concrete with rubber particles from recycled tyres and replace energy-intensive
cement with supplementary cementitious materials in a way that overcomescurrent problems with rubberised concrete. After developing an ultra-highperformance eco-friendly rubberised concrete the project will explore its static anddynamic material and structural properties. The application in engineering
practices such as roadside barriers will be studied leading to many advantages toconstruction industries and society.

TYREX AUSTRALIA PTY
LTD

National Interest Test Statement
Concrete is the second most consumed material in the world, the first being water. Twice as much concrete is used in construction as all other building materials combined. It is one of the most carbon-intensive industries, making
up more than 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions globally per year. The need for viable and cost-effective solutions in the concrete industry are critical to support global changes to meet net zero targets. Our project aims todeliver an ultra-high performance concrete utilising tyre rubber and recycled fibre to reduce Portland cement consumption, improving the structural strength of concrete while addressing a global environmental issue. In Australia,
11.3 million used tyre are being stockpiled, landfilled and illegally dumped, which creates a significant environmental and health impact on communities. Attempts to address challenges in concrete reduction and tyre waste are notunique, but there is a notable gap in research regarding rubberised concrete mixture design involving high rubber content and supplementary cementing materials. Partnering with an industry leader in recycled rubber products willallow us to explore pre-treatments for cement bonding and deliver a comprehensive dataset on the mechanical behaviour of the new eco-friendly concrete, bringing economic and social benefits to the construction industry in adeliberate and expedited way.
University of Technology Sydney

178,853.00

188,749.00

188,749.00

0.00

0.00

556,351.00

175,701.00

190,329.00

199,163.00

0.00

0.00

565,193.00

University of Wollongong
LP230201046
Jiang, Prof Zheng Y

A novel austenitic stainless steel bipolar plate for hydrogen fuel cells
This project aims to develop a green, efficient and cost-effective manufacturing
process to produce a new stainless steel bipolar plate (BP) for hydrogen fuel cells(HFCs). This project expects to solve the long-standing issues in traditional BP
materials that are either brittle, costly or susceptible to corrosion in acidic, highhumidity and temperature environments. The expected outcomes are abreakthrough in steelmaking and HFC industries by significantly reducing industrial
pollution and operational costs and enhancing the overall performance of HFCs.
This project will advance clean energy manufacturing in Australia and instil a new
impetus to achieving the nation’s net-zero target by 2050 in the context of longdistance hauling.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC ActBAOSTEEL COMPANY,
SNS UNICORP PTY LTD

Page 11 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

National Interest Test Statement
Hydrogen energy is deemed a clean fuel due to zero or low emissions and flexibility in fuel sources. Hydrogen energy is expected to form an important part of Australia’s and the world’s decarbonisation strategy, especially whenhydrogen fuel cell (HFC) vehicles are playing a superior role in long-haul travel and freight transport than battery electric vehicles. This project will significantly advance steel rolling theory and nanolubrication technology together
with subsequent heat treatment and stamping of rolled sheets to produce a new bipolar plate (BP) with high performance for HFCs in a green, efficient and cost-effective manufacturing process. This project aligns well with the
National Manufacturing Priority area of Recycling & Clean Energy, aiming to initiate a revolution replacing traditional BP materials to meet the demands of future clean energy manufacturing. The successful completion of thisproject will make significant contributions to Australia’s steelmaking and HFC industries and thus help address the nation’s environmental challenges in net-zero emissions by 2050. The research outcomes will be promoted byreinforcing the university-industry research alliance and partnership in rolling, lubrication and processing of steels and realising the commercialisation of the novel BP products and associated manufacturing and processing
technologies, leading to a long-term collaboration in advanced manufacturing for Australia’s clean energy transition in the future.
University of Wollongong

175,701.00

190,329.00

199,163.00

0.00

0.00

565,193.00

New South Wales

3,937,120.00

4,289,794.00

3,851,672.00

1,133,328.00

926,191.00

14,138,105.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 12 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)

192,300.00

221,242.00

164,775.00

0.00

0.00

578,317.00

Northern Territory
Charles Darwin University
LP230200709
Murphy, Prof Brett P

Cat management guided by Country

TIWI LAND COUNCIL

The project aims to understand the seasonal variation in feral cat ecology and management
effectiveness on the Tiwi Islands—where cats are rapidly eroding biodiversity values.
Working with Tiwi Traditional Owners, the project plans to deeply embed Indigenous
perspectives in the design and implementation of a cat management program. The project
expects to deliver new knowledge of feral cat ecology and management effectiveness, andprovide a framework for planning, communicating and evaluating management that is
culturally meaningful to Indigenous managers. This should improve the uptake,effectiveness and longevity of feral animal management—and therefore enhancebiodiversity conservation—on Indigenous lands.
National Interest Test Statement
Feral animals continue to have a devastating impact on biodiversity and ecosystem health across Australia’s vast Indigenous estate, that covers 57% of Australia's land area. So far there has been little attempt to align the
management of feral animals with Indigenous perspectives on land management, despite it being increasingly recognised that Indigenous Peoples must be involved in the co-design and implementation of land management
programs, if those programs are to be successfully applied to their lands. In collaboration with an Indigenous land management organization, the project will focus on the development and implementation of a feral cat
management program on the Tiwi Islands, a region of high biodiversity values that are being rapidly eroded by cats. It will provide a framework for developing feral animal management programs (including planning,
implementation and communication) that are more meaningful to Indigenous people than existing or commonly applied approaches. This framework will provide a template that can be applied across much of Australia's vast
Indigenous estate, increasing the cost-effectiveness of feral animal management across these areas. Effective management of feral animals will lead to improvements in environmental health and biodiversity, including the statusof many threatened or culturally-significant species. In the future it may also allow Traditional Owners to earn payments through emerging biodiversity markets.
Charles Darwin University

192,300.00

221,242.00

164,775.00

0.00

0.00

578,317.00

Northern Territory

192,300.00

221,242.00

164,775.00

0.00

0.00

578,317.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 13 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)70,843.00

171,036.00

88,693.00

0.00

0.00

330,572.00

Queensland
Griffith University
LP230200526
Beer, Dr Tanja

Culture for Climate: the performing arts and eco-creative sustainability
This project will fill an urgent knowledge gap that is stalling the transition ofAustralia’s performing arts to environmental sustainability. We will determine how
performing arts organisations can respond to the climate crisis using creative
sustainability approaches in production and operational processes. Our projectwill deliver creative sustainability strategies that have been tested and proven inAustralia’s performing arts sector, plus a framework for embedding sustainability
goals in the National Cultural Policy. Australia’s performing arts sector has anappetite to transition to sustainability and to be leaders in meeting the challenges
of climate change. This project will deliver tangible tools to fast-track thistransition.

PAC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD,ONE STONE ADVISORSNational Interest Test Statement
The Australian Government aims to be Net Zero by 2050, with emissions reductions of 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project aims to investigate strategies to enable Australia’s performing arts sector to adapt andcontribute to this future reality. Despite the escalating climate crisis, the environmental challenges and opportunities facing the sector remain under-researched. It is vital to understand the significant leadership role that
performing arts organisations can play in addressing climate change through the creative greening of their production and operational processes. This project will generate new knowledge and protocols that support thisleadership, and will be a framework that can be scaled up to the cultural and creative industries as a whole. Project outcomes will also make a significant contribution to cultural policymaking, especially Australia’s next National
Cultural Policy, in respect of embedding context-sensitive environmental sustainability goals. The research design directly responds to the challenge of knowledge translation. A practical case study approach links artistic
creativity and environmental sustainability to support the agency of project partners and performing arts organisations to take the lead in the transition. The outcomes of the project will be promoted in the sector through a range
of industry-accessible forums with national reach, hosted by Griffith University and supported by Partner Organisations PAC Australia and One Stone.
LP230200736
Martinez Coma, Dr
Fernando

Reducing the Informal Vote in Queensland Elections

57,665.00

60,535.00

51,003.00

68,028.00

105,113.00

342,344.00

Queensland's informal vote rate is not only high and rising, but in a pattern that
defies explanation. In order to combat the problem of hundreds of thousands ofwasted votes at every Queensland election we must first understand it. This
collaboration with the Electoral Commission of Queensland addresses the
problem at both state and local levels over 4 election periods using 6 distinct
studies. Combining experimental data, aggregate-level data and individual-level
data, the project will provide a thorough, multi-dimensional picture of informal
voting. It will then propose remedies to be trialled and assessed. In sum, thisproject will represent the most complete and nuanced study of informality everconducted in any Western democracy.

ELECTORAL COMMISSION
OF QUEENSLAND

National Interest Test Statement
Australia —and Queensland in particular —experiences high and rising rates of informal voting at every election. These wasted votes are undesirable because they compromise the central democratic values of inclusiveness,equality and legitimacy, depriving citizens of the representation they need. A key strategic objective of the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is to reduce levels of informal votes, particularly in communities with highrates and also high numbers of young, disadvantaged and culturally and linguistically diverse electors. This project proposes to achieve just that. But first we must fully understand the nature of the problem in Queensland where
the pattern of informality is atypical. This collaboration with the ECQ will produce knowledge of the patterns and sources of informal voting at both state and local Queensland elections. Combining 6 distinct yet inter-related
studies over 4 elections, this will be the most ambitious, multi-dimensional study of informal voting ever conducted in an advanced democracy. The project will also develop test solutions for arresting the problem and thereby
assist the ECQ in meeting its goal of reducing informal voting. Despite its Queensland focus, the study’s findings will be applicable to all Australian jurisdictions, including the Commonwealth, as well as other compulsory voting
regimes around the world. This will enhance Australia’s reputation as one of the most inclusive and successful voting systems in the world.
LP230200778

The key to the long-term health of Australian rivers

280,902.00

298,068.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

298,881.00

0.00

0.00

877,851.00

SYDNEY WATER

Page 14 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)
Burford, Prof Michele A

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)
CORPORATION,
DEPARTMENT OFENVIRONMENT AND
SCIENCE, COUNCIL OF
MAYORS (SEQ) PTY LTD,HEALTHY LAND AND WATER
LTD

This project tackles the challenging issue of predicting the ability of rivers toprocess anthropogenic nutrients (=assimilative capacity). This foundational
information is needed for catchment restoration efforts, including market-based
approaches. The project will combine the world-class expertise of modellers,biogeochemists, water and environmental managers, and catchment restoration
experts to undertake targeted experimental work, analysis of long-termmonitoring data, and modelling studies. Using this multipronged approach,expected benefits include improving the accuracy of predictions of the capacity ofrivers to assimilate nutrient sources, now and in future conditions, such as
population growth, and climate change scenarios.
National Interest Test Statement

Halting the water quality decline of rivers by undertaking effective catchment management actions is desperately needed globally. Poor water quality impacts drinking water supplies and ecosystem health. However, the key toassessing the benefits of management actions is understanding the ability of rivers to process or assimilate nutrients coming from human activities. This includes the use of market-based approaches to reduce catchmentnutrients. However, our understanding of the ability of rivers to process nutrients from different sources remains limited, with models typically relying on limited data, resulting in high uncertainty in predictions. We will take aninnovative approach by linking the expertise of environmental managers in government, the water industry, and researchers to establish an evidenced-based understanding of how multiple rivers are able to process nutrients andthen use a sophisticated model to predict how catchment rehabilitation, population growth, and climate change will affect water quality. By collaborating with government and water industry partners, the outputs of the project canbe translated into action to guide investment in catchment and river rehabilitation. It will also provide the scientific foundation to enhance the nutrient trading schemes to maximise environmental and social benefits and bringcatchment management to a new level.
Griffith University

409,410.00

529,639.00

438,577.00

68,028.00

105,113.00

1,550,767.00

130,626.00

134,272.00

128,012.00

0.00

0.00

392,910.00

Queensland University of Technology
LP230200806
White, Prof Ben P

Assessing the operation of voluntary assisted dying laws in Australia
This project will undertake the first national assessment of how Australia’s newvoluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws are operating in practice. Working with VAD
Boards and health departments in 5 states, this research will use, for the firsttime, non-public Board data to better understand the VAD experience at stateand national levels. Semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders will address
knowledge gaps including about community awareness of VAD, access barriers
and health professional experiences. Based on research findings, the project will
recommend changes to law, policy and practice which, if implemented, will
improve VAD quality and safety for the benefit of patients, families, healthprofessionals and the community.

QUEENSLAND HEALTH,QUEENSLAND VOLUNTARYASSISTED DYING REVIEWBOARD, WESTERN
AUSTRALIAN VOLUNTARYASSISTED DYING BOARD,
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
OF WA, VICTORIAN
VOLUNTARY ASSISTEDDYING REVIEW BOARD,VOLUNTARY ASSISTEDDYING COMMISSIONTASMANIA, SA
DEPARTMENT FOR HEALTH
AND WELLBEING

National Interest Test Statement
Australia has voluntary assisted dying (VAD) laws in all states allowing terminally-ill patients who are suffering to seek assistance to die. The significance of these new laws means they must be carefully monitored but there has
been only limited research about them. This project collaborates with VAD Review Boards (independent bodies that oversee the operation of VAD) and health departments in 5 states to assess whether these VAD systems areoperating safely: the system should be accessed only by eligible patients, but there should not be unfair barriers to this choice. A unique feature of this research is that it uses, for the first time, non-public data from 5 state
Boards to provide a national assessment of VAD systems. Outcomes of this research include proposed changes to VAD law, policy and practice to enhance its safety and accessibility. Working with the Boards and departments
who are partners in this research will assist in translating these recommendations into practice. The researchers will also engage with government, health and other stakeholders to shape and disseminate findings. This research
will benefit patients who want this choice and their families through enhanced access while still ensuring system safety to protect potentially vulnerable members of society. Health professionals participating in VAD will benefit
through better supports for their involvement and the community as a whole will benefit through confidence in system oversight.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 15 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)LP230200917

One-step separation and collection for pharmaceutical industry

198,737.00

203,377.00

208,028.00

208,028.00

0.00

818,170.00

Sun, Prof Ziqi

TIGER PHARM PTY LTD

This project aims to design and manufacturing large-scale separation andcollection membranes with tuneable surface properties to achieve effective
oil/emulsion/microparticles separation and collection performance by learningfrom natural one-step separation and collection functionalities. The outcomes will
provide a realistic solution to the key challenges in separation and separation
demands in current pharmaceutical industries, including high contamination,easy blocking, low-efficiency, and lacking sustainability. This project will advancethe knowledge base of sustainable separation technologies and brings
technological breakthroughs to industry partners, pharmaceutical industries, andseparation end-users.
National Interest Test Statement
Separation and collection of floated or dispersed oils, emulsions, and microparticles from aqueous media are one of the most critical processes in pharmaceutical industry and represent up to 80% of pharmaceuticalmanufacturing costs, which urges the upgradation of pharmaceutical separation and collection technologies. This project will design and manufacture large-scale separation and collection membranes with tuneable wettability toachieve effective separation and collection performance by learning from the natural one-step principles. The outcomes of the project will offer a realistic solution to the challenges of high contamination, easy blocking, lowefficiency, and lacking sustainability in current pharmaceutical separation technologies and finally provide a breakthrough technology to lower the overall cost of the entire pharmacy industry. This project aligns well with the core
strategy of the industry partner, and the outcomes of this project will be translated to real-world pharmaceutical industries together with the industry partner. This project will hence contributes to cutting-edge technology
innovations, leads to research transformation to end-users, and brings significant economic, environmental, and social benefits to both Australian and international communities.

LP230200994
Mahendran, Prof
Mahen

Superior Cold-formed Steel Floor Truss Systems to Modernize
Construction

149,804.00

149,925.00

79,774.00

0.00

0.00

379,503.00

SCOTTSDALECONSTRUCTION SYSTEMSThis project aims to develop new and improved high strength cold-formed steel(CFS) floor truss systems for use in mid-rise CFS buildings worldwide. It will
generate new knowledge of the true behaviour and capacity of various CFS truss
systems using extensive experimental and numerical studies. Expected
outcomes are improved truss systems through simple strengthening techniques,
new connections and built-up sections with reliable design methods. New
lightweight CFS floor truss systems made of optimised sections and truss
configurations will also be developed. These outcomes will enable modernized
off-site construction to produce faster, safer, sustainable, and low-cost mid-risebuilding solutions, thus addressing the current housing crisis.
National Interest Test Statement
Significant timber and labour shortage and lack of modernized construction have led to the current housing crisis in Australia. Modernized off-site construction using prefabricated lightweight and high strength cold-formed steel(CFS) products will produce faster, safer, sustainable, and low-cost mid-rise CFS building solutions, and help achieve the Australian government’s target of 1.2 million new homes in 5 years by the construction of mid-rise
residential apartments in the suburbs. However, there is lack of knowledge, design methods and innovative systems for one of the critical mid-rise building component, CFS floor truss. This project will provide new knowledge ofthe complex behaviour and design of various high strength CFS floor truss systems, and develop improved, new and optimised systems. Adopting the project outcomes via an intelligent software integrating design, fabricationand construction will enable widespread, safer and sustainable use of low-cost CFS floors in mid-rise residential buildings, and benefit the Australian design, manufacturing and construction industries and the community.
Australian companies manufacturing high strength steel sections will gain significantly by expanding their applications worldwide. Project outcomes will contribute to the government priorities of advanced manufacturing andclimate resilience in built environment. Importantly, they will provide a solution to the current housing crisis involving both shortage and affordability.

LP230201082
Zhang, A/Prof
Zhanying

Biorefining of Brewer's Spent Grain into Novel Dietary Fibres

124,321.00

129,321.00

Dietary fibres have a market value of multi-billion dollars. This project aims to
produce novel dietary fibres from a food industry waste, brewer’s spent grain,using low-cost green alcohol solvents and novel enzymes. The expected
outcomes include two types of novel dietary fibres, new knowledge inunderstanding of property-functionality relationships of the dietary fibres as well

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

129,321.00

0.00

0.00

382,963.00

GRAINSTONE PTY LTD,
ALLOZYMES PTE LTD

Page 16 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

as improved process sustainability and economics achieved with the use ofinnovative biorefinery technologies. The biorefinery technologies are applicableto other cereal grains and grain processing by-products, such as wheat bran,
accelerating the development of a new multi-billion-dollar nutraceuticalmanufacturing industry in Australia.
National Interest Test Statement
The food industry in Australia generates significant amounts of organic wastes and by-products, such as brewer’s spent grain and grain brans. These wastes and by-products are rich in protein and dietary fibres. However,currently they are disposed to landfill or used as low-value feed. Existing technologies for extraction of protein and dietary fibres from food processing wastes and by-products can not be commercialised because of the poor
process economics. The successful implementation of this project will lead to the development of techno-economically viable biorefinery approaches for upcycling food wastes and by-products. Commercialisation of the multiproduct biorefinery process by project industry partner will diversify the products from food wastes and by-products, increase the process economics and sustainability, and reduce the business risk. The new biorefinery
technologies will also accelerate the establishment of a new multi-billion-dollar nutraceutical manufacturing industry in Australia. This will not only create hundreds of new jobs, but also strengthen Australia’s leading position in
manufacturing and exporting nutraceutical products.
LP230201087

Resolving bottlenecks in natural product biomanufacturing

176,774.00

181,937.00

187,123.00

0.00

0.00

545,834.00

Biochemicals that cannot be produced through synthetic chemistry are often
Behrendorff, Dr Jamesamenable to biotechnological production, but industrialisation is hindered byB
inefficient enzymes at key steps. This synthetic biology project aims to address
this important problem by combining ancestral protein reconstruction, machinelearning for prediction of enzyme function, and multiplexed in vitro metabolic
pathway prototyping. The power of this approach will be demonstrated byenhancing cytochrome P450 enzymes and prenyltransferases for biosynthesis ofalkaloids and flavones. We expect that the project outcomes will reduce researchand development costs associated with biotechnological manufacturing of highvalue natural product biochemicals.

COMMONWEALTHSCIENTIFIC AND
INDUSTRIAL RESEARCHORGANISATION, DELICA
THERAPEUTICS PTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
Australia’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources recently identified Synthetic Biology-based manufacturing as a Critical Technology in the National Interest. The value of chemicals produced via synthetic biology
exceeding $11 billion USD in 2022 and projected to reach $20-30 billion USD by 2030, but Australia currently has negligible domestic manufacturing of small molecules. Advances in synthetic biology present an opportunity forAustralia to access this segment of the global economy. Synthetic biology-based manufacturing methods enable biotechnological synthesis of complex natural products that are of high value and can be produced at
economically meaningful scales in relatively small facilities. This project advances capability and cost-effectiveness of natural product manufacturing in partnership with an Australian company that aims to establish on-shore
production capabilities Importantly, training opportunities will be created concomitantly, that will increase the domestic skill base necessary for establishing biotechnological small molecule manufacturing. The technologicalimprovements gained from this project will also lower the barrier to entry for biotechnological production of bioactive compounds from Australia's native flora and fauna. This project is to be conducted in collaboration with CSIRO
and will benefit national capability building in the use of synthetic biology for biomanufacturing of high value small molecules.
LP230201118
Barner-Kowollik, Prof
Christopher

High Performance Photoinitiators for 3D Laser Lithography

60,180.00

60,180.00

To overcome key challenges of 3D printing on the micrometer scale, this projects
develops next generation photoresists for 3D laser lithography. Based on a
precision photophysical analysis approach, a blue print will be derived thatcreates the missing link between the chemical structure of photoinitators andtheir ability to print in two photon absorption processes. Based on this blueprint,
high performance initiators will be synthesised and embedded into photoresiststhat break two barriers in contemporary 3D laser lithography: (i) Resists that
decouple photopolymerisation processes from the printing process to eliminate
volume shrinking during printing. (ii) Resists that allow to print 3D structures in
the presence of living cells.

60,180.00

0.00

0.00

180,540.00

NANOSCRIBE GMBH & CO
KG

National Interest Test Statement* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 17 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

The manufacturing industry has been revolutionised by 3D printing, which uses a digital blueprint to generate objects in a variety of sizes and shapes. Miniaturized objects have important applications in the fields oftelecommunications, data storage, optical devices and human health. The ability to print tiny objects in the presence of living cells will enable key advances in regenerative medicine including the development of 3D printed skinand organs. 3D printing processes for biological applications are currently hampered by slow printing speeds, volume shrinkage and inks that lack water solubility and are toxic to cells. This project will develop new highperformance inks for 3D printing that overcome these critical limitations. Developed in collaboration with a world leader in 3D printing, the project will increase the uptake of 3D printing in a variety of commercial manufacturing
processes, building a foundation for on-shore manufacturing capacity in Australia. The choice of industry partner is driven by the fact that Australia does not have any companies that produce two photon printers, yet thistechnology is essential for 3D precision printing at the micro-level. NanoScribe’s technology has applications in microoptics, microfluidics, integrated photonics, life sciences, micromechanics and materials engineering. Australia
needs to connect with the world-leader in 3D laser lithography and hold intellectual property in this space to protect its manufacturing future.
LP230201126
Couperthwaite, Prof
Sara J

Precursors for perovskite solar from an Australian minerals supply chain

149,500.00

149,750.00

143,000.00

146,500.00

0.00

588,750.00

LAVA BLUE LTD

The aim is to develop production processes for transforming Australian resources
into photovoltaic (PV) perovskite precursor specialty materials for next generation
solar cells. Expected outcomes of this project include: (1) sourcing Australian
resources, including mine wastes, to secure supplies for precursor materials, (2)demonstrate at scale, using novel processing methods, the production of
bespoke precursor materials, and (3) enhance knowledge in impurity impacts onperovskite efficiency and stability in order to develop capacity in building next
generation PV perovskite solar cells. This research will develop significant
sovereign capabilities to supply and produce new energy technologies to achieve
net zero emissions by 2050.
National Interest Test Statement
Solar power systems that use silicon as the photovoltaic material to capture the light are the current industry standard. However, companies around the world are starting to commercialise solar cells using halide perovskites,
either as an added layer on top of silicon to increase the light capture, or as a standalone device to take advantage of good efficiency, cheaper manufacturing processes, good low light performance and the potential to beconstructed on flexible surfaces. The precursors for these perovskites are manufactured from minerals that are found and mined in Australia including tin, bismuth and lanthanum. Growing demand for perovskites is creating newopportunities for Australia to supply these minerals in a highly value-added form, processed from the primary ores mined in Australia into very pure materials that are needed to manufacture the solar cells. This project willdevelop, demonstrate and commercialise methods for manufacturing these high purity, high value materials in Australia starting from primary ore. As well as opening up new export markets for Australian minerals, the project will
also make it possible for Australian manufacturers of perovskite solar cells to secure supplies of the necessary inputs from Australian suppliers.
Queensland University of Technology

989,942.00

1,008,762.00

935,438.00

354,528.00

0.00

3,288,670.00

Identifying sources of contaminants of concern entering Australian sewers

192,076.00

197,887.00

198,695.00

0.00

0.00

588,658.00

The University of Queensland
LP230200469

This project aims to identify and quantify sources of contaminants of concern
Mueller, Prof Jochen F
entering Australian sewer systems by mapping industrial inputs into catchments.
A world-first systematic sampling and archiving program will be established for
trade waste, combined with an ongoing analytical program to profile chemical
contaminants linked to industry. The project will also determine baselines fordomestic inputs and associated chemical fingerprints. Comparing domestic andindustrial inputs will aid in identifying the main polluters in a catchment that is
critical to designing the best source control options. This forms the basis for
effectively reducing releases of chemical contaminants into wastewater treatment
plants and receiving environments.

QUEENSLAND URBANUTILITIES, MELBOURNEWATER CORPORATION,
CITY OF GOLD COAST,
SOUTH EAST WATERCORPORATION,TOWNSVILLE CITY
COUNCIL, DEPARTMENT OFENVIRONMENT AND
SCIENCE, ENVIRONMENTPROTECTION AUTHORITY
VICTORIA, QUEENSLANDHEALTH, QUEENSLAND
WATER DIRECTORATE,JAUME I UNIVERSITY

National Interest Test Statement* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 18 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

This project addresses a pressing national challenge of escalating threats from contaminants of concern. Wastewater treatment processes are not able to effectively remove persistent chemical hazards, hence the release ofsuch chemicals into waste streams results in the continuous contamination of wastewater effluent and/or biosolids. In this collaboration between academia, utilities, and regulatory bodies, we aim to establish a robust program forsampling and archiving wastewater from different industries from initial release into the sewer networks, as well as from sub-catchments without industry input, which contributes to domestic baselines. We will use state-of-the-art
analytical techniques to profile samples and use this to establish a source tracking toolkit that will aid in identifying key polluters within catchments. Outcomes will be used by policymakers to formulate evidence-based
regulations, by water utilities to improve trade waste management, and by communities to understand and reduce chemical exposure. In the long term, effective source control will lead to cleaner waste streams, delivering
substantial benefits through reduced chemical footprints and is key to high-quality resource recovery products. By enhancing Australia’s capacity to monitor, regulate, and mitigate contaminants, this project significantly
contributes to Australian environmental sustainability, public health, and the transition towards a circular economy.
LP230200690
Healy, Prof Karen E

Empowering peer-parent and family advocacy in Australian child protection

233,000.00

239,000.00

227,000.00

0.00

0.00

699,000.00

This project aims to transform Australian child protection systems by building
national capabilities in peer-parent and family advocacy (PPFA). Its significancelies in being the first study to examine the scope, characteristics, and theresources needed to build and sustain PPFA in Australian child protection
systems. Using mixed research methods, this co-designed project entails aunique partnership with families with experience of child protection intervention,family support and disability services, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
communities. Expected outcomes include strengthening of PPFA capabilities toreduce the incidence, and the financial and social costs, of children's removalfrom families, communities, and Country.

MICAH PROJECTS LTD,COMMUNITY LIVINGASSOCIATION INC, LIFEWITHOUT BARRIERS,
ABSEC- NSW CHILD, FAMILYAND COMMUNITY PEAKABORIGINALCORPORATION,QUEENSLAND ABORIGINAL& TORRES STRAITISLANDER CHILD
PROTECTION PEAK LIMITED,FAMILY INCLUSIONSTRATEGIES IN THE
HUNTER INCORPORATED,THE FAMILY INCLUSIONNETWORK WA INC

National Interest Test Statement
Australian child protection systems are in crisis. In 2021-2022, Australian governments spent $8.2 billion on child protection services, a real increase of 7.5% from the prior year, and a doubling of costs over the previous decade.
The over-representation of families with complex needs, children of parents with intellectual disability, and of First Nations families as subjects of child protection investigations and child removals to out-of-home care issubstantial and growing. Concern exists about the financial sustainability of Australian child protection systems and of the harms these systems can cause to children and to their relationships with parents, families, communities,
and Country. This project aims to build knowledge and practical resources to empower parents and families, with lived experience of child protection systems, as peer-advocates and change leaders. Our approach involves aunique partnership between researchers, peer-parent and disability advocacy groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child protection peak bodies, and community services. Project outcomes will progress the AustralianChild Protection Framework's (2021-2031) vision for all children to grow up safe, connected to and supported by their family, community and culture. Our Partner Organisations will use the knowledge generated to strengthen
parents' and families' roles in advancing family inclusive approaches to child safety and to reducing the incidence and costs of child removals.
LP230200765
Craik, Prof David J

Robotics & automation for plant-based production of pharmaceutical
peptides

297,160.00

297,072.00

The aim of the project is to produce peptide-based drugs in plants. This issignificant because peptides are viewed as exciting new generation drugs thatare potentially safer and more effective than traditional 'small molecule' drugs.
Plants offer the possibility of producing these drugs in a sustainable, eco-friendly
way, avoiding harsh chemicals and solvents used in traditional drug manufacture.
Expected outcomes are (i) engineered plants custom designed for peptide
production, (ii) peptide drugs suitable for plant-based production and (iii) proof ofconcept that these designer peptides can be produced in a host plant.
Anticipated benefits are economic (from future potential products) andenvironmental (from sustainable manufacture).

298,848.00

0.00

0.00

893,080.00

PHYLLOME PTY LTD,
PHARM-A-CARE
LABORATORIES PTY.
LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 19 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

This project aims to produce new drugs based on peptides, using plants as production ‘biofactories’. The expected outcomes are potential new drugs for treating pain, high cholesterol, and obesity, as well as an innovative new
manufacturing route to make them. It addresses a gap in our national manufacturing capability for high value pharmaceuticals and has the potential to create a new bio-pharming industry in Australia. The project has multiple
benefits: Drugs deriving from it could benefit the health and wellbeing of Australians; there could be significant commercial returns from the sale of plant-produced pharmaceuticals; and there are environmental benefits fromproducing drugs in plants, so that non eco-friendly reagents and solvents typically associated with pharmaceutical manufacture can be avoided. We have a well developed translational plan, whereby the growth of thepharmaceutical plants will be done in industry partner Phyllome’s state-of-the-art controlled growth facility and product development will be done by PharmaCare, an Australian company that has significant global connections.
LP230200820
Mercer, Prof Timothy R

Improving Quality Control of mRNA Manufacture with Nanopore
Sequencing

277,977.00

288,263.00

173,216.00

0.00

0.00

739,456.00

OXFORD NANOPORETECHNOLOGIESThe mRNA manufacturing industry has grown rapidly to address the worldwide
demand for vaccines. However, more than half the time and cost to manufacture
an mRNA vaccine is required for quality control, which is currently slow,
expensive, and inaccurate. We have developed a streamlined nanopore
sequencing test, VAX-Seq, that analyses mRNA quality with superior accuracy
and at reduced cost and time. This project partners with Oxford Nanopore tovalidate VAX-seq for use in routine mRNA manufacture. To demonstrate its
advantages, we will benchmark VAX-seq against current quality control methods.
Whilst we anticipate its adoption across the pharmaceutical industry, the greatest
benefit of VAX-Seq will be safer and more effective mRNA vaccines.
National Interest Test Statement
The mRNA manufacturing industry has been prioritized by the Australian Government for pandemic preparedness, future growth, and high-value jobs. However, the quality control of mRNA vaccines is currently slow, expensive,
and inaccurate. Our nanopore sequencing test can quickly and accurately analyse mRNA quality control. The BASE mRNA facility, in partnership with Oxford Nanopore Technologies, proposes to qualify this test for regulated
use during mRNA manufacture. Given its advantages, we anticipate the test will be widely adopted across the pharmaceutical industry, and will position Australia at the forefront of mRNA manufacture. The test will support oursovereign capabilities in mRNA vaccine manufacture, and support the development of new mRNA vaccines in response to future pandemics and for emerging agricultural pests.

LP230200835
Wang, Dr Liguang

Enhancing flotation for sustainable production of lithium minerals

98,401.00

102,542.00

92,682.00

0.00

0.00

293,625.00

The project aims to develop a greener and more sustainable particle separation
process based on froth flotation for increased production of lithium mineral
concentrates. This research builds on a recent breakthrough in flotation processintensification to overcome the challenge faced by the industry – how to improve
product quality without sacrificing the recovery. The expected outcomes of thisproject include increased flotation recovery and product grade and important
knowledge for full-scale design. This should boost production of lithium mineral
concentrates while utilising existing equipment and reduce costs and adverse
environmental impacts in processing the ores, underpinning a low-carbon future.

GLOBAL LITHIUMRESOURCES LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement
A low-carbon economy needs efficient and sustainable concentration and recovery of critical minerals for making batteries to store renewable energy. This project aims to develop and demonstrate a new particle separation
process to improve concentration and recovery of lithium mineral concentrates at reduced costs and environmental burden. This project will advance the knowledge base of mineral processing and propel technologicalinnovations in recovery of lithium minerals whose global demand is projected to increase by multiple folds by 2050. It will help Australia grow its economy through boosting production of high-quality critical minerals in asustainable way to meet global demand for energy transition. The research results will be shared with Australian mining companies. The knowledge generated from this project will be translated into improved efficiency of lithium
beneficiation processes adopted by Australian lithium mineral producers. This project fits into one of Australia’s current Science and Research Priorities - Resources, and addresses the Practical Research Challenge technologies to optimise yield through effective and efficient resource extraction, processing and waste management. It also fits into one of the National Manufacturing Priorities – Resources Technology and Critical Minerals
Processing.
LP230200892

Building an Aussie Information Recommendation System You Can TrustYin, Prof Hongzhi

This project aims to address the escalating public distrust in online media
platforms arising from misinformation, compromised user privacy, echo

176,178.00

203,742.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

205,804.00

0.00

0.00

585,724.00

MOSTWA MEDIA AND
ENTERTAINMENT

Page 20 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

chambers, and community bias. Collaborating with a well-established Australian
online media platform, the project expects to build Australia's inauguraltrustworthy information recommender system by spearheading the design anddevelopment of cutting-edge misinformation filters, user-controlled privacy
protection mechanisms, diversity-aware information recall algorithms, andcommunity fairness-enhanced ranking algorithms. These technology
advancements will seamlessly integrate into online media platforms to create amore reliable information dissemination environment and foster public trust.
National Interest Test Statement
Online media platforms have become the primary channels for news dissemination. Yet, these platforms are grappling with a pressing challenge of public distrust arising from pervasive issues such as misinformation,
compromised user privacy, echo chambers, and community biases. This challenge is particularly acute in the context of Australia's multicultural society. This project aims to tackle this challenge by spearheading the design anddevelopment of trustworthy information recommendation technologies, including automated misinformation filtering techniques, user-controlled privacy protection mechanisms, diversity-aware information recall algorithms, andcommunity fairness-enhanced information ranking algorithms. These technical advancements will tackle existing issues of distrust in Aussie online media platforms and lay the groundwork for a more reliable and secure
cyberspace. In addition, the generated diversity-aware information recall algorithms will champion cultural diversity in information dissemination, shatter information cocoons, and cultivate an environment that fosters crosscultural communication. The developed community fairness-enhanced information ranking algorithms will facilitate significant strides in mitigating community biases and amplifying the voices of minority communities in the online
world. In a strategic move, these groundbreaking advancements will seamlessly integrate into ongoing industrial collaborations with leading online media platforms.
LP230200901
Fitzsimmons, Dr
Terrance W

Amplifying Leadership and Voices of Indigenous women environmental
rangers

291,987.00

288,151.00

289,853.00

0.00

0.00

869,991.00

Indigenous women rangers face significant challenges in having their collective
wisdom heard by governments and other bodies. Whilst empowered ascommunity leaders through their deep knowledge borne from millennia of cultural
practice, their leadership voices have less impact beyond their communities. This
project partners with Indigenous women rangers across Northern Australia toestablish new pathways for their leadership voices to be heard, increasing theirleadership impact. Expected outcomes will enable Indigenous communities tolead change in the field of land management through their women rangers. This
will result in more successful promotion and implementation of their ideas,
knowledge and practices beyond their communities.

WORLD WIDE FUND FOR
NATURE AUSTRALIA, MIMALLAND MANAGEMENTABORIGINAL CORPORATION

National Interest Test Statement
Despite their deep cultural understanding of country, Indigenous women rangers have relatively little influence over decisions affecting the management of Australia’s natural environment. This project, co-created with Indigenous
women rangers and harnessing on-country learning and Indigenous knowledge sharing, advances Australia’s capacity to apply the ideas, knowledge, and wisdom of Indigenous women rangers to influence change in thepreservation of Australia’s natural environment and the impact these women have upon their local communities. An important outcome is the identification of new strategies and communication pathways that support Indigenous
women rangers, as individuals, and as a collective, to grow their day-to-day leadership influence and their ability to influence longer term policy discussions that impact their roles and their communities more broadly. The
empowerment of Indigenous women rangers enhances their profile, influence, and leadership roles, granting them greater voice in resolving broader social issues within their communities, creating further opportunities througheducation, job creation, environmental and economic development. An ultimate objective is to support the foundation of a national body for and by Indigenous women rangers, representing their collective voice and interests
which will provide resources for Indigenous women to influence environmental management practices, Indigenous community policies and outcomes across Northern Australia.
LP230200960
Meehan, Prof Paul A

Development of an Advanced Flexible Chain-die Forming Process

159,270.00

175,366.00

175,366.00

159,270.00

0.00

669,272.00

SNS UNICORP PTY LTD

The project aims to design and validate an Advanced Flexible Forming Process
to manufacture a wider range of stronger, lighter and cheaper products for manyindustries. The newly-designed, one set of tooling, will also improve quality andenergy efficiency (by around 30%). The primary outcome will be a validated
optimized Flexible Chain-die forming system with automatic control. The resultsof the project can significantly increase the energy and cost efficiency inmanufacturing many steel products, such as automobile parts and solar panel
support structures. The project will enhance Australia's leadership in* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 21 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)commercializing niche advanced forming technologies while greatly reducing
carbon emissions to achieve a sustainable future.
National Interest Test Statement
Traditional sheet metal forming technologies are experiencing difficulties such as unwanted deformation, excessive energy consumption and poor geometrical accuracy, especially when fabricating steel products with highstrength and low weight. This project will develop and validate an advanced sheet metal forming mechanism with an advanced control system to solve these problems, making stronger, lighter and cheaper parts for manyindustries. This new innovative technology (patent application) will be commercialized by an Australian company, benefiting Australia’s advanced manufacturing industry. This will increase the competitiveness of local enterprises
by; reducing capital costs of new production lines and maintenance costs due to reduced forming load requirement while significantly improving energy efficiency (by around 30%). Also, the application of the proposed
technology will reduce carbon dioxide emissions due to lower power requirements. The project team of experts and inventors, supported by the international license owner of the Chain-die forming technology, will ensure thefeasibility of the project and long-term development and commercialization of the proposed niche advanced manufacturing technology.
LP230200999
Frere, Dr Celine H

Airborne eDNA for northern bettongs

170,000.00

155,000.00

155,000.00

0.00

0.00

480,000.00

The northern bettong is a small kangaroo-relative and one of the top 20
Australian mammals at greatest extinction risk. With feral threats driving theirdecline, less than 1500 are believed to remain, and data deficiencies hamper
their conservation. Airborne eDNA promises an efficient way to bridge evidence
gaps about this and other threatened species but approaches to estimate
distribution, occurrence and abundance from this technique do not yet exist. By
developing those methods and assessing them against camera-trapping for thenorthern bettong, this project expects to provide partners with crucial informationon the species and its feral threats, and significantly advance the application of
airborne eDNA for terrestrial biomonitoring.

DEPARTMENT OFENVIRONMENT AND
SCIENCE, AUSTRALIANWILDLIFE CONSERVANCYNational Interest Test Statement
Australia’s fauna biodiversity is amongst the most distinctive in the world, but we have extraordinary rates of extinction. The endangered northern bettong, a small kangaroo-relative, is one such species at great risk of extinction,
largely due to competition and predation by feral animals. Like many other rare, cryptic, elusive and low-biomass species, their adaptive management is hampered by a lack of data because it’s expensive and difficult to collect.
Airborne eDNA (the analysis of DNA in the air) is low cost, easy to deploy and can be used to detect species across taxonomic groups (both threatened and feral) from a single sample. There is a groundswell of interest in
airborne eDNA because of the dramatic efficiencies it promises to government agencies, conservation organisations and industry, but approaches don’t yet exist for the estimation of species distribution, occurrence andabundance using this technology. With a focus on the northern bettong, this project will develop the new methods needed for the broad uptake of airborne eDNA, whilst providing much needed data to our partner organisations
for the management of the species. Like aquatic eDNA, which is now routinely used in a range of regulated settings across the globe, potential applications for airborne eDNA are vast (future uses include environmental impact
assessments, terrestrial inventory and monitoring etc.) and this project will bolster Australia’s lead at the forefront of its development.
LP230201058
Wang, Dr Conan K

A molecular platform for design and production of next-generation
peptides259,878.00

239,278.00

216,528.00

0.00

0.00

715,684.00

TELIX PHARMACEUTICALSLIMITED

This project aims to use novel cystine-rich peptides as ultra-stable miniature
biologics to solve the problem of a lack of specificity and stability of many existing
diagnostic agents. This project expects to generate cutting-edge molecularmethods for engineering of these next-generation molecules to bind specifictarget proteins while retaining their chemical structures, new chemical ways for
precise late-stage functionalisation with a metal cage, and new biochemical
methods for scalable and sustainable manufacturing. Development of thismolecular platform should strengthen a highly successful collaboration with ourAustralian partner and position them for future development of molecules for thetargeted delivery of radiation.
National Interest Test Statement
Australia’s biotechnology sector worth >$233B nationally is witnessing rapid growth. Of note is Australia’s burgeoning and lucrative radiopharmaceutical market, projected to reach $52B globally by 2031 with returns of $180 for
every dollar invested. However, developing radiolabelled molecules specifically for the use of targeted delivery of radiation is presenting new unmet challenges including that they need to be highly specific for their target cell and* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 22 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation, Leaderof Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

exceptionally stable during manufacturing to tolerate the radioactive metal component. This project will develop next-generation ultra-stable biomolecules that perfectly fits these specific requirements, but it must begin with
fundamental scientific understanding of their structural, molecular, and biochemical properties to be better equipped to engineer and functionalise them at will. This project also expects to generate knowledge to enable
sustainable and scalable manufacturing of these unique biomolecules. Expected new knowledge and methods will reduce the time and cost burden of the development and manufacturing process. Greater sovereign capacity todesign and make next-generation radiolabelled molecules will fortify Australia’s reputation as a market leader. Our partner organisation is a leading Australian radiopharmaceutical company and has a strong track record incommercialisation and product distribution globally, and thus is exceptionally well-placed to commercialise project outcomes in the long-term.
The University of Queensland

2,155,927.00

2,186,301.00

2,032,992.00

159,270.00

0.00

6,534,490.00

Queensland

3,555,279.00

3,724,702.00

3,407,007.00

581,826.00

105,113.00

11,373,927.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 23 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)50,000.00

50,000.00

50,000.00

0.00

0.00

150,000.00

South Australia
Flinders University
LP230200783
Goray, Dr Mariya

Evaluation of shedder phenomenon in forensic science
This project aims to deliver the first standardised shedder test and categorisation,
population datasets on shedder types and self/non-self DNA contributions; forcasework implementation. This project is expected to generate data on factors
affecting individual’s propensity to transfer DNA during a contact event (shedder
status) which is currently poorly understood. Generated data will be of significant
benefit in provision of justice as breakthroughs are urgently needed to bolster forensic
DNA expertise in courts. DNA from touch evidence is central to most criminal court
cases, yet these data and supporting methods are lacking. New robust methodology
and suitable population datasets will pivotally benefit quality of evidence provision.

FORENSIC SCIENCE SA,
VICTORIA POLICE

National Interest Test Statement
Touch DNA, i.e., the DNA left behind when a person touches a surface, is considered to be highly valuable forensic evidence in court proceedings. However, numerous aspects of touch DNA, such as differences in how people
shed their DNA are not well understood. These uncertainties in the quality and quantity reduce the value of touch DNA in forensic analyses, and is a priority issue recognised by the National Institute of Forensic Sciences. The
project will address this problem by developing a simple and novel test that will categorise individuals based on how they shed their touch DNA, enabling the construction of data sets that can be used in legal casework. Byleveraging our strong links with the Partner Organisations (Victoria Police and Forensic Science SA), the project outcomes will be applied to operational settings via workshops, conferences and publications relevant to ourpartners and other police and forensics workers in Australia. The Australian community will benefit by improved justice from better evidence provided in court prosecutions against potential offenders.
Flinders University

50,000.00

50,000.00

50,000.00

0.00

0.00

150,000.00

114,854.00

107,854.00

97,854.00

0.00

0.00

320,562.00

The University of Adelaide
LP230200821
Zhang, Dr Wei

Advanced Data Analytics for Cost-effective Mushroom Cultivation
Bringing together experts in data mining, machine learning, the Internet of Things andbioscience, this project aims to develop innovative models and algorithms, to monitor
and understand the automated greenhouse mushroom cultivation environment withmulti-modal multi-structured data. The project expects to explore the interplays among
these different data modalities and structures to provide practical data analysis
approaches establish the theoretical foundations, and generate new knowledge forPrecision Agriculture. The cost-effective solution should provide significant benefits toAustralian horticulture cultivators.

CLEVER MUSHROOMS PTY
LTD, PIXELFORCE SYSTEMSPTY LTD, HOKKEN CO., LTD

National Interest Test Statement
The mushroom production industry and market in Australia has reached a production plateau, as global and domestic demand is impeded by high production costs caused by labour-intensiveness, and large waste. This projectwill develop a suite of models and techniques to scrutinise the relationship between the greenhouse mushroom cultivation environment with energy usage, mushroom growth, yield and flavour. This will allow cultivation
environment optimisation for waiving human labours, decreasing energy usage and waste, and enhanced interpretability of the cultivation process. Outcomes will benefit the Australian greenhouse cultivation industry and arepoised to bolster Australia's global standing in agricultural innovation. The generation of new knowledge, establishment of practical data analysis methodologies, and theoretical foundations will not only benefit local mushroom
cultivation but also contribute to the broader field of Precision Agriculture. The research will also be critical to preserve our hard-won reputation for clean, safe and sustainable production. The adaptable learning framework andcultivation data of various mushroom types collected from the systems will be publicly shared. We intend to work directly with our partners to promote rapid uptake and adoption of the research findings.
LP230200846

Preventing extinctions of threatened mammals with DNA in sediment archives

200,000.00

225,000.00

This project aims to prevent further extinctions of Australian mammals by* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

115,500.00

0.00

0.00

540,500.00

BUSH HERITAGE
AUSTRALIA, WORLD WIDE

Page 24 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Fordham, A/Prof
Damien A

strengthening reintroduction programs. It will combine ancient DNA extracted fromsediment and bulk-bone deposits with ecological models to reconstruct spatial patterns
of mammals and plants across Australian landscapes. Its significance is that it will
establish historical distributions and habitats of Australian threatened mammals at
geographic scales and spatial resolutions needed for evidence-based ecologicalrestoration. Expected outcomes and benefits are new data, verified models andconservation decision-making frameworks that will enrich the protection and recovery
of many of Australia’s most threatened species and reinstate their important ecosystemservices.

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)
FUND FOR NATURE
AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIANMUSEUM, DEPARTMENT OF
PLANNING ANDENVIRONMENT NSW,AUSTRALIAN WILDLIFECONSERVANCYNational Interest Test Statement
Australia’s unique mammals have suffered the highest rate of recent extinctions of any continent. Reversing further declines, and averting new extinctions, requires more detailed understanding of past distributions and preferredhabitats. This project will use innovative models and advances in sedimentary ancient DNA and bulk-bone metabarcoding to reconstruct spatial patterns of native mammals and plants in Australia and predict possible futures.
Resulting data and ecological models will establish losses of mammals and changes in habitat at key conservation areas since 1788, pinpointing reintroduction and restoration areas that will best safeguard Australia’s distinct
mammals, including under climate change. New scientific understandings will encourage investments in conservation activities that deliver clear, measurable net gains for imperilled mammals and their ecosystems. This will help
Australia meet objectives of its national Threatened Species Action Plan, by improving vital reintroduction and restoration actions needed to prevent future extinctions, and its Nature Positive plan, by developing computational
tools that help to increase protected areas in ways that maximise benefits to biodiversity. Project outcomes will be communicated via links with government, conservation and museum partners, and other national and international
agencies, including Australia’s Threatened Species Commissioner and Scientific Committee, maximising cross-disciplinary research and impact.
LP230200963
Smith, Prof Scott T

Multifunctional Structural FRP Panels Incorporating Recycled Plastic Waste

139,170.00

164,643.00

165,965.00

0.00

0.00

469,778.00

The project aims to develop fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP)-based structural panels
that incorporate recycled plastic composite (RPC). This project expects to identify the
manufacturing processes to innovate RPC as a construction material. Sustainablepanel systems will develop by utilising RPC and/or stiffeners as the inner core with astrong outer made from FRP. The expected outcomes include innovative RPC,
experimental validation, numerical optimisation, design guidelines and field
investigation for the panel system to adopt this new panel technology. The panel
systems will increase our plastic recycling capacity in Australia. The RPC and panel
systems present a step change in construction technology and sustainableinfrastructure.

SUSTAINABLE
INFRASTRUCTURE
SYSTEMS PTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
There are currently large stockpiles of plastic waste collecting throughout Australia. It is of national importance to find viable uses for this waste and to contribute to Australia's response to the National Plastics Plan 2021 and the
National Waste Policy 2018. This project aims to develop technology to convert waste plastic into sustainable, valuable and recyclable, easy to use, self-locking panels for use in the construction industry. Along with Partner
Organisation Sustainable Infrastructure Systems, we will conduct lab experiments and numerical optimisations, develop long-term prediction models, guidelines and field trials, to identify optimal combinations of waste plastic andepoxy resins, and the most efficient processes required to create the fibre reinforced polymer panels. This technology will be amenable with a wide range of commercial and industrial construction applications. Economic, socialand environmental benefits are anticipated to result from reduced reliance on costly construction materials such as timber, steel and concrete, and increasing the use of waste materials. Project outcomes will be promoted widely
through industry forums such as Trade Shows and Expos promoting rapid translation and adoption of the technology. The interest expected from environmental groups will result in television and radio promotion to a wide publicaudience. Progress of the research project will be accessible through social media platforms, blogs and websites.
LP230201055

Development of rapid-drying barley for sustainable malting

80,872.00

109,640.00

Barley is a fundamental ingredient in the brewing and distilling industries, but traditional
Tucker, Prof Matthew
malting processes that germinate and dry grain are resource-intensive and challenged
R
by rising energy costs. This project aims to identify natural genetic variation in barleythat contributes to improved performance during gas-powered kilning, the most costly
processing step for the $484M malt export industry. The multidisciplinary project teamof seed biologists, maltsters, and breeders, is expected to generate new information
regarding the basis for variation in grain drying. This is expected to deliver reducedinput barley varieties for Australian growers that require less energy to process and are* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

117,562.00

223,703.00

0.00

531,777.00

COOPERS BREWERY
LIMITED, AUSTRALIANGRAIN TECHNOLOGIES PTYLTDPage 25 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

highly valued in domestic and export markets.
National Interest Test Statement
Barley is Australia’s second most important cereal crop and adds ~$2B to the economy. Around 30% of Australia’s barley grain is used for malt production in an energy-intensive process that requires water for seed germinationand gas for drying. Increasing energy costs are challenging industry’s ability to produce cost-effective malt. This project will address the need for resource-efficient barley varieties that meet these demands in an increasingly ecoconscious market. The project aims to identify barley grain features and genes that influence drying efficiency of malted grain and assess their ability to limit energy inputs during kilning. Promising gene variants will be introduced
into barley breeding programs and tested in field trials. Economic benefits for maltsters and breeders will come from reduced reliance on energy resources and improved commercial marketability of grain to domestic and export
customers. Grain growers will benefit from having access to new value-added barley varieties. Reduced reliance on fossil energy sources will contribute to the social drive to mitigate global warming and climate change. Australianmaltsters and barley breeders will provide pathways to adoption by Australian growers and offer advantages to export markets demanding high-quality barley with an improved sustainability profile. Field days and interactions with
regional barley advisory groups will also play an important part in our promotion, translation and adoption strategy.
The University of Adelaide534,896.00

607,137.00

496,881.00

223,703.00

0.00

1,862,617.00

142,309.00

136,755.00

139,886.00

0.00

0.00

418,950.00

University of South Australia
LP230200579

Cultivating Systemic Safety to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment

A major barrier to preventing workplace sexual harassment is that common protections
Tuckey, Prof Michelle
intervene at the individual level, targeting harassing behaviour but overlooking theRunderlying causes. This project aims to extend knowledge of its roots in theorganisational system, then develop, implement, and evaluate novel interventions tocultivate systemic safety and reduce harassment risk. Expected outcomes include
advanced understanding of the risk contexts for sexual harassment, evidence forintervening at root cause level, and detailed case studies outlining what works inrealising positive duty obligations. Significant anticipated benefits include pragmatic
strategies and resources for creating workplaces resistant to sexual harassment.

OUR WATCH LIMITED,COMCARE AUSTRALIA,SAFEWORK SA, RETURN TO
WORK CORPORATION OF
SOUTH AUSTRALIA,SAFEWORK NSW,QUEENSLAND HUMAN
RIGHTS COMMISSION,
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY SA,
WORKING WOMENSCENTRE INC, BASIC RIGHTSQUEENSLAND INC,TEAMGAGE PTY LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement
Workplace sexual harassment is a significant issue in Australia, costing our economy more than $3.5 billion each year. Sexual harassment disrupts business operations and slows down progress in achieving gender equality atwork. Traditional prevention methods include policies, training, and reporting, which focus on the behaviour itself without addressing its root causes. This misdirection of effort is a major reason why the problem persists. Our
project will learn more about the origins of sexual harassment in the organisational system, looking deeper into aspects like organisational culture, social dynamics, job and task characteristics, technology, and the physical work
environment. By gaining a richer understanding of these risk factors, we will develop new evidence-based prevention strategies. Our research will provide valuable insights into where and how to intervene to change theorganisational systems in which sexual harassment occurs. Second, it will offer a model approach and resources for taking action to create workplaces that are resistant to sexual harassment. To transfer knowledge beyond the
project, our alliance of partners will work together to develop and disseminate a prevention toolkit, case studies, and recommendations. These resources will assist businesses in meeting the new positive duty related to sexual
harassment under the Sex Discrimination Act. Additionally, government and human rights agencies will be better prepared to combat this pressing issue.
University of South Australia

142,309.00

136,755.00

139,886.00

0.00

0.00

418,950.00

South Australia

727,205.00

793,892.00

686,767.00

223,703.00

0.00

2,431,567.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 26 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)

220,000.00

180,000.00

180,000.00

0.00

0.00

580,000.00

DEPARTMENT FOR
ENVIRONMENT AND
WATER, SOUTH
AUSTRALIAN ARIDLANDS LANDSCAPE
BOARD, BUSH HERITAGE
AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIANWILDLIFECONSERVANCY, WORLDWIDE FUND FOR
NATURE AUSTRALIA,
FOUNDATION FORRABBIT FREE AUSTRALIA
INC, ARKAROOLAWILDERNESSSANCTUARY, ARKABACONSERVANCY

Tasmania
University of Tasmania
LP230200693

Removing rabbits to restore large scale natural habitat and wildlife

The project aims to experimentally test whether targeted removal of rabbit warrens will
Jones, Prof Menna E
allow vegetation to recover and reduce cat presence, expanding and connecting habitatfor entire communities of wildlife at large landscape scale. High rabbit densities support
high cat densities causing broad-scale environmental degradation and species declines.
Project outcomes include the delivery of evidence-based guidelines for implementing anefficient and low technology method for ecosystem restoration at large scale, well-suited
to a broad range of land managers. The method offers a significant advance in effective
methods for restoration and conservation in unfenced landscapes.

National Interest Test Statement
High densities of introduced rabbits support feral cats, causing both broad-scale environmental degradation and native wildlife decline in Australia. This project, in the semi-arid South Australian Flinders Ranges, will demonstrate
how removing dense patches of rabbit warrens leads to reduced browsing by rabbits and decreased activity of cats, allowing vegetation, soils and wildlife to recover. We will show how strategic removal of patches of warrens canbe used to link isolated areas of intact habitat. We will test the effectiveness of the method over timescales from new removal to 30 years. Warren removal is a cost-effective, low technology method which can be applied to large
scales by a broad range of landowners. It presents a step-change improvement in restoration methods for large, unfenced landscapes, a major challenge in Australia where current methods of lethal control of cats are inefficient.
Restoration of vegetation, soils and wildlife will help to deliver major economic, environmental, and Aboriginal cultural benefits.
LP230200771
Duhn, Prof Iris

Living Climate Change Lab: co-researching Ecological Futures on Country

53,740.00

59,740.00

This project integrates Aboriginal knowledges with biodiverse ecological systems
thinking for young children. It explores climate change, aiming to develop a place-based,
Aboriginal-informed climate change education model for early years. This principlebased model will be co-designed with our partner organisations and a group of young
Aboriginal children. The project will create a Living Climate Change Lab (LCCL) on
Country in the form of a biodiverse ecological system and utilise insights from the LCCL
to generate an education model. The project aligns with Federal initiatives, responds toglobal climate change research, and has potential for scalability across Australia. It
privileges Aboriginal knowledge as a gift to communities.

74,995.00

0.00

0.00

188,475.00

TASMANIAN ABORIGINALCORPORATION,
MATERIAL INSTITUTE
LIMITED

National Interest Test Statement
The project seeks to develop new climate and place learning with Aboriginal children. In partnership with Connected Beginnings Tasmania, Material Institute and the University of Tasmania, the aim is to create a place-based
Aboriginal-informed climate education model for early years, firstly for the Kutalayna region in Southern Tasmania, but with strong principles that can be scaled up across Tasmania, and Australia. Such a model will havesignificance for early years education internationally as there is a gap in early years’ research and practice around climate change education. The emphasis on Aboriginal and western knowledge in aligns with federal initiatives for
Aboriginal children and addresses an important issue for early childhood education in Tasmania and in Australia, as there is a policy imperative, evident in the updated Early Years Framework Learning Framework (2022), to
integrate Aboriginal knowledges into everyday pedagogical practice. The project will generate new knowledge by exploring biodiverse ecological systems as learning environments that foster children’s sense of belonging andcare for place as Country. Biodiversity loss and climate change are interrelated issues, affecting every Australian community. This project seeks to develop children’s knowledge, skills and understandings of place as sites fortransformative actions to build climate change resilience. It does this by privileging Aboriginal children's pivotal role as guardians of culture.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 27 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)LP230200956

Devil facial tumour disease vaccine development and field trials

175,148.00

108,391.00

265,120.00

191,299.00

0.00

739,958.00

CEVA WILDLIFERESEARCH FUND,
DEPARTMENT OF
NATURAL RESOURCES
AND ENVIRONMENTTASMANIA, BONORONGWILDLIFE SANCTUARY
PTY LTD, THE TRUSTEEFOR ANIMAL CONTROLTECHNOLOGIES AUST
UNIT TRUST, USDA
NATIONAL WILDLIFERESEARCH CENTER,
NATIONAL CENTRE FORSCIENTIFIC RESEARCH,
FRANCE (CNRS),
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS,AUSTIN, JOHNS HOPKINSUNIVERSITY, MAYO
CLINIC, MILLENNIUMSCIENCE PTY LTD,ILLUMINA AUSTRALIAPTY LTD, GENSCRIPT

Flies, Dr Andrew S

Two independent Tasmanian devil facial tumours (DFT1, DFT2) are infectious cancers
with nearly 100% case fatality rates. Despite rare cases of natural tumour regressions,most Tasmanian devils (Sarcophilus harrisii) suffer and die from DFT1/2 by age 4. This
has resulted in >80% declines in regional devil populations where DFT1 and/or DFT2
are present. Few tools exist for controlling DFT1 and no attempts have been made tocontrol DFT2, which to date exists only in southern Tasmania. The overarching goal ofthis project is to develop a DFT1/2 vaccine that can help rebuild the wild devil population
ravaged by DFT1 and prevent spread of DFT2 across the state. This oral bait vaccine
project will be model for combatting other wildlife diseases.

National Interest Test Statement
Australia’s unique marsupial species play key roles in Australia’s tourism economy, maintaining healthy environments, and are part of our cultural identity. Disease and human activities (e.g. roadkill, introduction of invasive
animals) are increasingly drivers of wildlife population declines and extinctions. Few tools are available to control wildlife disease on a broad scale in the landscape. Two independent devil facial tumours (DFT1, DFT2) aretransmissible cancers that have driven >80% declines in regional Tasmanian devils populations. Our team has been working to develop a vaccine to prevent DFT1 and DFT2. In parallel to vaccine development, we have beendeveloping a system to deliver the vaccine in edible baits, which will eliminates the need to trap and jab every devil with a vaccine. This project will validate new vaccine platforms and formulations that are specifically-designed formarsupials. The vaccines will be tested in the field with the goal of rebuilding the wild devil population and preventing DFT2 from spreading across the state. We are working with key industry partners to develop this pipeline,
which can be rapidly modified to combat other emerging infectious diseases in other marsupial species. In addition to improving our understanding of the Tasmanian devil immune system, the vaccine vectors developed in thisstudy will be used to better understand the immune system of other marsupial species.
University of Tasmania

448,888.00

348,131.00

520,115.00

191,299.00

0.00

1,508,433.00

Tasmania

448,888.00

348,131.00

520,115.00

191,299.00

0.00

1,508,433.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 28 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)

152,111.00

168,778.00

148,833.00

0.00

0.00

469,722.00

AUSTRALIAN EDUCATIONUNION FEDERAL,
AUSTRALIAN
SECONDARYPRINCIPALS'ASSOCIATION INC.,
AUSTRALIAN COUNCIL
OF STATE SCHOOLORGANISATIONSLIMITED

Victoria
Deakin University
LP230200802
Arnold, Dr Ben

Attracting and retaining a culturally diverse teacher workforce
This Deakin partnership with teacher, parent, and principal organisations investigatesfactors impacting the attraction and retention of a culturally diverse teacher workforce
in public schools. Through co-designed national surveys, policy workshops, and casestudies, our project examines, from sociocultural, postcolonial, and Indigenous
perspectives, three teacher career transitions: from school student aspirations toinitial teacher education and into schools. This interrogation of workforce supply anddemand will yield significant evidence to inform policies and planning for partners,
universities, and governments, and identify strategies for creating interculturally
capable and culturally safe school and teacher education systems.
National Interest Test Statement

A national crisis of attracting and retaining teachers confronts schools and education systems, particularly public schools in disadvantaged communities. Furthermore, the teacher workforce does not represent Australia’s
multicultural and Indigenous student population. The research team partnering with key stakeholders- teacher, parent and principal organisations- aims to widen participation of culturally minoritised groups and First Nation
Peoples in teacher education and the teacher workforce. The project will investigate three critical career moments- school student aspirations, accessing teacher education and graduates transitioning into schools, thereby
addressing priorities 1-3 of the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan. The project aims to build intercultural capacity within education systems by providing teachers, parents, students, Indigenous educators and theircommunities, the partner organisations, universities and policymakers with comprehensive evidence and strategies to inform planning, policies and practice for developing a culturally and linguistically diverse teacher workforce.
Through guides, reports, research publications and videos to be shared with key stakeholders and the public, the project will advance knowledge and provide insights into strategies related to student career choices and thecreation of interculturally capable and culturally safe schools. This will benefit all students, particularly those in disadvantaged communities.
Deakin University

152,111.00

168,778.00

148,833.00

0.00

0.00

469,722.00

93,000.00

215,000.00

130,000.00

0.00

0.00

438,000.00

La Trobe University
LP230200751
Maylea, A/Prof Chris

Supporting Trauma-Informed Legal Services: A Stepped-Wedge Multi-Site
Study
Trauma-informed practices are widely recognised for their effectiveness acrossvarious service sectors. This project would be the first controlled implementation andempirical research of these practices in publicly funded legal services. Partnering with
Legal Aid Commissions in New South Wales, Victoria, and the Northern Territory, itaims to empirically assess the impact of training, supervision, and coaching on legal
service delivery. Anticipated outcomes include enhanced client experiences andimproved legal outcomes, potentially setting new standards in legal assistance. This
strategic research alliance promises significant community benefits by developing anevidence-base for trauma-informed practices in the Australian legal system.

LEGAL AID COMMISSIONOF NSW, VICTORIALEGAL AID, NORTHERNTERRITORY LEGAL AID
COMMISSION

National Interest Test Statement
People’s legal needs often intersect with poor mental health and trauma. This project could improve Australia's legal system by implementing and assessing trauma-informed legal assistance. This project is vital for Australia’s
national interest as it could lead to an evidence base on which to build a more humane, efficient, and effective legal system. The transition to trauma-informed legal assistance has been endorsed by the Commonwealth AttorneyGeneral, who commissioned and launched the intervention that this research project will assess. Economic benefits include streamlined, effective legal services that can reduce court delays and costs, offering taxpayers
considerable savings. Social benefits include the implementation of trauma-informed practices in legal assistance. This could lead to reduced reoffending rates and better outcomes, thus strengthening social cohesion. Successful
adoption of these methods could also become a benchmark for quality in the legal industry beyond the legal assistance sector. For First Nations and other groups, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed legal services can make the* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 29 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

legal system more accessible and equitable. This approach respects First Nations perspectives on justice and well-being, fostering reconciliation. This project will be the first empirical research of its kind, promoting translation into
practice, literature and legal curricula. There is a clear pathway for implementation with the National Legal Assistance Partnership.
LP230201021
Van Riessen, Dr
Grant A

299,341.00

Scalable fabrication of diamond quantum microprocessors

294,999.00

294,978.00

0.00

0.00

889,318.00

Quantum computing is rapidly emerging, bearing transformative economic andsecurity implications for Australia. This project leverages expertise in diamondmaterials science and x-ray science to develop a scalable manufacturing process fora distinctive diamond quantum technology that will expand quantum computing toefficiency-critical edge computing applications. Expected outcomes include newcapabilities for fabricating the fundamental components of quantum computers using
light and plasma to manipulate the surface of diamond. This will provide significant
benefits, enhancing Australia’s sovereign quantum capabilities and strategically
positioning Australia to capitalise on the anticipated $106B global quantum computing
market in 2040.

QUANTUM BRILLIANCE
PTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
This project will strategically position Australia to leverage the rapid growth of quantum computing by addressing the challenge of manufacturing diamond-based quantum computers at scale. Quantum computing is on the verge ofrevolutionising industries and transforming our approach to solving complex problems, with the global market projected to grow to $106 billion by 2040. The National Quantum Strategy calls for action to address challenges incommercialising quantum technology and building sovereign capability for future advancements. Leveraging national strategic strengths in quantum materials and inspired by innovations that drive technology scaling in thesemiconductor industry, this project will establish a pathway for precisely manipulating synthetic diamond surfaces. This work will create the fundamental building blocks of an Australian quantum computer technology.
Distinguished by its compactness, robustness, and cost-effectiveness, this technology promises to extend quantum computing to applications where computing efficiency and density are paramount, such as in satellites andvehicles. Advancing the scalable, high-precision manufacturing of this technology will enhance Australia’s sovereign quantum capabilities, positioning Australia to deliver future-focused technologies for defence and industry andsupporting the training of a future quantum industry workforce.
La Trobe University

392,341.00

509,999.00

424,978.00

0.00

0.00

1,327,318.00

166,743.00

260,935.00

260,396.00

106,078.00

0.00

794,152.00

Monash University
LP230200510
Zhang, Prof LianElectrified Reactor System for Green Manufacturing of Chemicals and Fuels
This project aims to develop an advanced electrified reactor system for the
manufacturing of chemicals and fuels with net-zero or even carbon-negativeemissions in Australia. The project is significant for promoting the implementation ofrenewable energy to mitigate emissions from the chemical industry. The expected
outcomes include cutting-edge designs and technologies for modern manufacturing,and the training of next-generation engineers to advance Australia's energy transition
initiative and securing its sovereign capability in the chemical supply chain. These
efforts can provide key benefits in addressing the major challenges in balancing thesustainability and profitability of Australia's industries in the carbon-constrained future.

ADVANCED FUELINNOVATION PTY LTD,ADVANCED CARBONENGINEERING PTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
This project develops a novel electrified reactor system towards using renewable energy in the chemical industry. Success will provide the chemical industry a net zero and even carbon-negative emission profile, in addition toefficient production of value-added chemicals within the future 2050 Net Zero Emission scheme. The chemical industry is currently the third-largest manufacturing sector in Australia, generating around 8% of the total carbon
dioxide. There is a significant lack of the adoption of renewable energy and electrification in the industry. Successful completion of the project will promote the energy transition of Australia's chemical industry, unlocking the ability
to convert abundant crop waste within the rural Australia into green chemicals and fuel, providing new job opportunities and sovereign capability. Furthermore, the project will enforce Australia's leadership in the Research,
Development and Deployment of the next-generation chemical reactor and process design, delivering world-class knowledge and talents essential for achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The project will be conducted through aclose collaboration between academics and industry partners with complementary expertise and skills in both the knowledge chain and value chain, as well as existing market, thereby improving the technology readiness level,
and overcoming the major technical barriers for the future scale-up and technology translation.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 30 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)LP230200649

Engineering optimal particle maturation in multicomponent sprays

184,009.00

182,404.00

180,361.00

0.00

0.00

546,774.00

Duke, Dr Daniel JThis project aims to develop novel methods to precisely measure and control particle
maturation processes in multicomponent technical aerosols. The project expects togenerate knowledge in the field of multiphase fluid mechanics and aerosol sciencethrough a combination of laser fluorescence, X-ray scattering and microscopy
techniques. Expected outcomes of this project include a capacity to engineer particle
size and shape in multicomponent aerosols across a range of aerosol devices which
are capable of outperforming currently available products while enabling the transition
to more environmentally friendly propellant chemicals. This project aims to benefit thepharmaceutical industry by accelerating the design of aerosol delivery systems.

KINDEVA DRUG
DELIVERY LP

National Interest Test Statement
This project aims to expand and accelerate the development of aerosol delivery devices used in pharmaceutical products, industrial processes and consumer products through the development of new technologies to study the
behaviour of particles in turbulent sprays. The existing tools available to industry for the design of aerosol products are relatively slow and do not provide deep insight into how the aerosol particles form. This project will bring
together concepts from the fields of engineering, physics and pharmaceutics to develop new laser based systems which will enable the measurement of individual aerosol particles inside a spray in real time. This will accelerate
the process of designing new generic pharmaceutical devices and consumer aerosol products which are more efficient and environmentally friendly. Australians stand to benefit from these developments through lower
pharmaceutical prices and reduced emissions from aerosol products. The research outcomes will be promoted beyond academia via industry trade publications and conferences, and through their adoption by the industry partner
as an industry-leading tool for accelerated commercial product design.
LP230200688
Bhattacharya, ProfSankar P

Conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to high value platform chemicals

174,132.00

182,917.00

172,668.00

68,000.00

0.00

597,717.00

The project aims to improve the sustainability of Australia's third-largest
manufacturing sector - the chemical industry - by scaling up our patented process forcontinuous production of platform chemicals using waste biomass avoiding fossil
fuels. Platform chemicals are base compounds that produce many other chemicals
and solvents used in daily life. We are unaware of any reactor with continuous
production capability. The reactor can produce multiple platform chemicals, but thisproject will focus on two high-value ones worth over US$10000/kg. The project will
enhance Australia’s manufacturing capability and secure its global chemical supply
chain position. reducing carbon footprint and contributing to our net-zero emission
target by 2050.

HERMAL BIO ENERGY
INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
Based on our patented and published work, this project aims to scale up a continuous process to manufacture high-value platform chemicals sustainably from renewable and low-cost feedstock - waste biomass, available widely inAustralia. These platform chemicals have multiple industrial applications, such as manufacturing biodegradable polymers, chemicals for agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The scale-up will be achieved by integrating fundamental
scientific work with engineering work, leading to a simpler reactor design for processing, lower manufacturing costs and high availability of the reactor during operation. The project's outcomes include new intellectual property on
product formulation and process parameters for the commercial development of a scalable reactor, thereby contributing to the growth of sustainable biochemicals and biofuel manufacturing from renewable feedstock and reducing
fossil-carbon emissions. With continued support from the industry partner, the research outcomes will be promoted towards commercial adoption. The overall impact goes beyond the laboratory, contributing to a greener, moresustainable bioeconomy for Australia.
Monash University

524,884.00

626,256.00

613,425.00

174,078.00

0.00

1,938,643.00

237,872.00

266,675.00

241,811.00

0.00

0.00

746,358.00

RMIT University
LP230200785

A Sustainable Process for Critical Metals Production from Laterite Ores

Bhargava, Prof
Suresh K

This project aims to develop an understanding of the underlying chemistry andchemical engineering to directly extract Nickel and Cobalt from laterite resources at
atmospheric pressure. This project expects to improve on previously attempted high-* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

QUEENSLAND PACIFICMETALS LIMITED

Page 31 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)pressure processes, as it aims for the almost complete extraction of these critical
metals, producing virtually no liquid or solid toxic waste. This should provide
significant benefits such as eco-friendly method for providing materials to the global
Lithium Ion battery market and the establishment of a novel battery metals platform
for the electric vehicle industry. This should yield substantial economic,
environmental, and social benefits to Australia.
National Interest Test Statement
This project will develop new technologies to obtain the critical metals cobalt and nickel from natural resources for Lithium batteries. The expected outcome is the development of expertise in Australia to extract pure metals andsupply the rapidly growing global market for energy storage and electric vehicles. A process for value-added processing of minerals to market-ready products will be established through the project, in contrast to current local
practices where most minerals are shipped off-shore from Australia unprocessed to be value-added post-delivery. This novel approach will result in minimal waste generation, including completely recycling nitric acid, making it anenvironmentally sustainable process free of toxic byproducts. The industry partner, Queensland Pacific Metals could directly apply the research findings to establish a processing facility in regional Australia (Queensland), thus
creating job opportunities in skilled roles and fostering local development. Additionally, this initiative will open up a new export market for supplying the rechargeable lithium battery industry.
LP230200897
Ma, Prof Tianyi

Sustainable Electrolysis via Functional Hybrids for Ammonia Production

263,283.00

291,957.00

292,798.00

0.00

0.00

848,038.00

This project aims to design hybrid metal phosphonates with tunable chemicalcompositions and morphology to efficiently convert nitrogen to ammonia powered byrenewable energy. It expects to improve selectivity and activity of current renewableammonia production to reduce dependence on fossil fuel. Expected outcomes include
delivery of a new strategy to synthesise novel hybrid catalysts, in-depth
understanding of catalysis mechanisms, and ammonia production prototype targeting
industry demanded parameters. This should provide significant environmental andeconomic benefits to Australia such as alleviating climate change and placing
Australia at the frontier of new technologies to attract greater investment into
renewable energy industry.

EUREKA TECHNOLOGYINNOVATION &INVESTMENT PTY LTD,EVIDENT AUSTRALIA PTY
LTD

National Interest Test Statement
This project is dedicated to transforming ammonia (NH3) production for a carbon-free energy future, targeting challenges tied to high temperature, pressure, and fossil fuel consumption. Our objective is to create innovative
catalysts, comprehend reaction mechanisms, and develop cost-effective, green electricity-powered NH3 production prototypes. In the short term, anticipated outcomes include an immediate reduction in carbon emissions,providing environmental benefits and advancing the cause of green NH3 production, thereby mitigating climate change. Medium-term benefits extend to economic growth through increased investments and job creation in the
renewable energy sector. In the long term, the project holds the promise of fostering sustained economic and environmental resilience, positioning Australia as a leader in green NH3 technology. To achieve these outcomes,translation and adoption pathways involve disseminating cutting-edge technology widely within the renewable energy industry. Collaborations with industry stakeholders, engagement with policy influencers, and leveraging
technology transfer initiatives will be pivotal in ensuring a seamless transition from research to implementation. By fostering industry-wide adoption and facilitating partnerships, this initiative aims to significantly contribute toAustralia's energy sector transformation, emphasising the critical role of green NH3 in promoting innovation and addressing the imperative of a sustainable future.
RMIT University

501,155.00

558,632.00

534,609.00

0.00

0.00

1,594,396.00

184,241.00

184,241.00

184,241.00

0.00

0.00

552,723.00

The University of Melbourne
LP230200617
Sandberg, Prof
Richard D

Next-Generation Gas Turbines: Predicting Cooling with In-Service Realism
This project aims to transform our understanding of how roughness (manufacturing
and operational) affects the complex cooling flows in gas turbines, to help meet thechallenge of ever-growing air transport and power demands in an affordable andsustainable way. We will exploit the latest simulation advances to study realisticroughness effects on cooling flows at engine-relevant conditions and use uniquemachine-learning approaches to create new models. These knowledge
breakthroughs and more accurate models will allow industry leader GE Aerospace todesign next-generation turbines, capable of using clean fuels, to efficiently and* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

GENERAL ELECTRICAEROSPACE

Page 32 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)(Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

reliably power the Australian aviation or energy sectors and benefit the Australianeconomy and environment.
National Interest Test Statement
In Australia’s transition to net zero, we must reduce emissions from air transport and our electricity grid. Despite increasing research into electric engines for aircraft, gas turbines will be the only viable option for flights forAustralians over the next decades. Gas turbines can also deliver grid stability when our renewable energy sources are intermittent. Fueled by hydrogen, new generation gas turbines will produce clean and affordable energy.
However, hydrogen gas turbines will subject their components to even hotter temperatures and current industry design-tools are not reliable under the conditions we anticipate for their operation. Better accuracy of predictions isneeded to ensure their safe and efficient operation. This project will develop new knowledge and better models to predict how cooling technologies are affected by rough surfaces resulting from operational wear and additive (or3D) manufacturing. The innovative results of this research collaboration will have a clear pathway for adoption as the research partner, General Electric Aerospace, manufactures clean power generation solutions as well as the jetengines used in most Australian airliners. This research will contribute to Australia’s transition to renewable energy. By providing clean and affordable electricity and air transport, it will promote trade, tourism, and socioeconomic
prosperity providing environmental, economic, commercial, and social benefits to Australia.
LP230200862
Manzie, Prof Chris

Long-duration monitoring with teams of autonomous agents

107,174.00

112,206.00

117,241.00

0.00

0.00

336,621.00

This project aims to deliver fundamental knowledge by developing algorithms to
support long duration surveillance missions using multiagent autonomous platforms.
There are the significant challenges in monitoring Australia's remote coastline, andthis project expects to provide capabilities that will assist in delivering more effective
and efficient solutions than presently available. The project will also have significant
spillover benefits into domains such as emergency response, precision agriculture
and aquaculture where information gathered by autonomous systems can lead tobetter decision making. Furthermore, the proposal encompasses a strong researchtraining aspect, with graduates exposed to leading edge industry and academia.

AGENT ORIENTEDSOFTWARE PTY LTD,PLATYPUS AUSTRALIAPTY LTD

National Interest Test Statement
Monitoring Australia's borders is extremely challenging given the length and remoteness of much of our coastline. Traditional surveillance using crewed flights is costly, inefficient, and sporadic. Although systems of unmanned
vehicles have many advantages, to date they have not had the range required in Australia. New systems, however, are being developed that provide vehicles with the capability to recharge without returning to a base. Thesesystems require advanced algorithms to control teams of unmanned vehicles and their recharging to undertake sustained surveillance missions. This project will address these significant theoretical advances. It will deliver novel
algorithms with guaranteed performance to assist in understanding how to best monitor large areas using unmanned systems. To demonstrate both capability and to assist in their translation, research outcomes will be
implemented in prototypes for unmanned systems developed by the partner organisations. Partner organisations will share both the algorithms and unmanned systems to Defence and more broadly, civilian fields such as precision
agriculture, aquaculture, and emergency response. Thus, the project will have economic, social, and environmental benefits in areas of national importance.
LP230200991

Understanding the immune response to mycoplasma vaccines

250,442.00

250,442.00

This project aims to address barriers to greater use of a novel vaccine against a
Browning, Prof Glenn
common bacterial pathogen of poultry. The project expects to develop solutions to theFchallenges of efficaciously delivering the vaccine to day old chicks and of confirming
protection in vaccinated flocks. The expected outcomes will include development ofmethods to vaccinate layer and meat chickens in the hatchery and assays to rapidly
determine effective vaccination in the field. This should provide significant benefits byenhancing animal health, welfare and production, and public health, through greatly
improved control of this pathogen and reduced use of antibiotics for control of thedisease and production loss it currently causes in poultry flocks.

250,442.00

0.00

0.00

751,326.00

BIOPROPERTIES PTY.
LTD.

National Interest Test Statement
Mycoplasmas are bacteria that cause diseases that have considerable adverse impacts in agricultural animals, affecting animal health, welfare and productivity across Australia. Vaccines developed by the University of Melbourne
and commercialised by Bioproperties Pty. Ltd. have been very successful in controlling mycoplasmas in chickens used for breeding, which can be vaccinated at an older age, but they cannot currently be used to protect egg- andmeat-producing chickens, which need to be vaccinated at one day of age, in the hatchery. This project will develop methods to enable a new vaccine developed by the University of Melbourne and Bioproperties to be used tovaccinate chicks in the hatchery, and for assessing whether they have been effectively vaccinated, greatly improving control of an important pathogen in the poultry industry. This will provide a direct benefit to Australian poultry
farmers, reducing their costs and improving their productivity, and to animal welfare, by improving the health of Australian chickens. It will also generate a greatly enhanced export market for an Australian veterinary biological* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 33 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

2024-25(Column 4)(Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 9)(Column 10)

product, particularly across Asia. In addition, the replacement of the use of antibiotics to control this pathogen with vaccination will have a global impact on reducing selection for antibiotic resistance in poultry, with concomitant
impacts on public health, in Australia and globally.
LP230201062
Williams, Prof
Spencer

236,739.00

Innovative Strategies for Crafting Precision Kinase Inhibitors

299,604.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

536,343.00

TIANLI BIOTECH PTY LTD

Protein kinases are key regulators of cellular signaling, playing a pivotal role indiverse biological processes. However, most protein kinase inhibitors target acommon binding site, leading to undesired effects on other kinases. This project aims
to create highly selective protein kinase inhibitors by using structural biology to
pinpoint unique interactions in the peptide-binding site. Using medicinal chemistry, we
will enhance kinase selectivity of existing potent but non-selective inhibitors, and willvalidate their cellular pharmacology. Our innovative approach will be broadly
applicable to diverse protein kinases of interest to academia and industry, and in the
future will support the development of new drugs by Australian companies.
National Interest Test Statement
This project aims to create an innovative strategy for developing precision inhibitors that can selectively target a particular class of enzyme called protein kinases. Protein kinases are commercially significant enzymes that play animportant role in regulating various biological processes, and many drugs act by selectively inhibiting their actions – but these drugs can also inhibit other enzymes, causing side effects. Through a collaboration with Australiancompany TianLi Biotechnology, this project will develop methods for developing kinase inhibitors that do not interfere with other enzymes, and then translate the developed methods into the Australian biotechnology sector. This
will equip Australian researchers and firms with an effective approach for developing kinase inhibitors with fewer side-effects, which in the long term could have potential as drugs. This strategy for creating precision inhibitors will
provide a robust foundation for a globally competitive Australian biotechnology sector, particularly in the field of pharmaceuticals targeting protein kinases.
The University of Melbourne

778,596.00

846,493.00

551,924.00

0.00

0.00

2,177,013.00

178,028.00

180,699.00

183,425.00

0.00

0.00

542,152.00

Victoria University
LP230200987
Wang, Prof HuaDistributed Evolutionary Computation for Green AI

NEXUS ONLINE PTY LTD

Despite the tremendous benefits and advantages of artificial intelligence (AI), its
growing carbon footprint has emerged as a significant concern. This project aims todevelop a distributed evolutionary computation framework to optimize AI's carbon
footprint. The project's objectives include advancing knowledge in the areas of green
AI, carbon footprints, and computational intelligence. Expected outcomes include
precise measurement of AI's carbon emissions, distributed differential evolution
algorithms, and cooperative co-evolutionary strategies. This project benefits thenation by promoting sustainable AI technologies, protecting the environment,
conserving energy resources, and advancing progress towards the 2025 net-zerogoal.
National Interest Test Statement
The increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across a wide range of Australian businesses and industries has raised concerns over its growing energy demands and carbon footprint. This project aims to explore andoptimise the carbon footprint of AI. It will cover theory and provide practical demonstrations to reduce the environmental impact of AI. The project will analyse greenhouse gas emissions throughout the life cycle of AI systems,
including manufacturing, operation, and disposal. The optimisation module will focus on improving energy efficiency in AI algorithms, hardware infrastructure, and data centres. The goal is to minimise energy consumption while
maintaining or improving AI performance. The project aims to provide actionable insights in the field of green AI for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers to make informed decisions and adopt sustainable
practices in AI development and deployment. The results will be freely accessible to the Australian government and eco-friendly companies like Apple and Amazon. The expected outcomes include precise measurement of AIlinked carbon emissions, along with new algorithms and strategies for mitigating AI-linked carbon emissions. This project has significant advantages in addressing climate change, conserving energy resources, protecting theenvironment, and advancing Australia's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Victoria University

178,028.00

180,699.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

183,425.00

0.00

0.00

542,152.00

Page 34 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader of Approved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Column 3)
Victoria

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)2,527,115.00

2,890,857.00

2,457,194.00

174,078.00

0.00

8,049,244.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 35 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)

107,035.00

53,120.00

96,791.00

0.00

0.00

256,946.00

COTA AUSTRALIA LTD,
BGC (AUSTRALIA) PTY
LTD, MICHELLEBLAKELEY, ARCHITECTPTY LTD, QUEENSLAND
DEPARTMENT OF
HOUSING

Western Australia
Curtin University
LP230200109
Ong ViforJ, Prof
RachelDelivering housing solutions that meet older people’s housing aspirations
Population ageing requires a structural shift in the way policymakers andpractitioners think about housing. There is presently a mismatch between
Australia's housing stock and the changing needs of ageing cohorts as thepotential of age-friendly and adaptable housing models remain unrealised.
Drawing on the expertise of a national team of researchers, business,government and not-for-profit partners, this project will co-create evidence-based
strategies for delivering innovative solutions to meet older Australians’ housing
aspirations. Using mixed methods, this project will address diversity among older
cohorts and the critical challenge of supporting the housing aspirations ofvulnerable older persons facing severe financial constraints.
National Interest Test Statement

There is a growing mismatch between Australia’s housing stock and ageing population. As people age, their housing aspirations and needs change. Yet, there is a lack of diversity in Australia’s housing stock, which is comprised
largely of houses that are not adaptable to the physical and social changes that accompany ageing. Age-friendly housing models exist, but there is a lack of information regarding their benefits and drawbacks, as many fall outsidecommonly known mainstream options. This project addresses the mismatch between Australia’s housing stock and ageing population by shedding light on older Australians’ housing aspirations, how they vary across diverse older
cohorts, and how policies can be developed to provide appropriate and affordable housing for vulnerable older persons with financial constraints. This project will generate new ideas for improving the environment that people age inand, in so doing, increase the capacity of older Australians to age in place and participate in the community. The project will benefit industries that cater to this growing cohort, while promoting equity by investigating thecircumstances of vulnerable older people and seeking to design solutions that address the restrictions they face. The project will actively drive change by sharing findings with those committed to supporting older Australians
through focus group discussions involving seniors and housing policy change-makers, as well as through industry briefings and forums.
LP230200961
Kingshott, Dr
Russel P

Optimising cost-effective services to the aged CaLD community

52,407.00

53,258.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

105,665.00

This project aims to help non-government service providers in the growing agedcare sector to identify, develop and offer cost effective community-based
services that can improve the lives and wellbeing of their culturally andlinguistically diverse (CaLD) clients. Services in this sector will be mapped andcosted. An online tool will be developed to (1) 'identify and standardise’ thepotential range of services on offer, and (2) calculate the cost of offering eachservice. This tool will directly benefit providers by helping them to decide theiroptimal suite of affordable services and improve how they realistically cost these
services when applying for funding from government entities and other sources.

UMBRELLA
MULTICULTURALCOMMUNITY CARESERVICES INC

National Interest Test Statement
Optimising the cost-effective services for the increasing numbers of aged people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) communities will help improve the understanding of their unique needs and expectations, which inturn will enhance the quality of services designed and delivered to them. This will lead to greater social cohesion and inclusion as well as better public health outcomes by making CaLD communities feel included and valued in theAustralian society. Taking better care of aged CaLD people will also improve Australia's global reputation and soft power as well as attract and retain high quality foreign talent to trigger innovation and sustain economic growth. All
these positive outcomes will ensure long-term stability and security of the Australian society and protect Australian national interest amidst the ongoing economic uncertainties and socio-cultural disputes in the world. This projectwill undertake specific translation and adoption pathways to achieve the above outcomes. For example, we will help understand the gaps in the design and delivery of community-based aged-care services and their impact on the
wellbeing of aged people from CaLD communities. We will also develop specific tools to help the aged-care service providers to review and to standardise their costing and service delivery models, which will help them not only
provide more cost-effective services to their clients but also seek more funding to support their operations.
Curtin University

159,442.00

106,378.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

96,791.00

0.00

0.00

362,611.00

Page 36 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)299,720.00

296,727.00

298,146.00

299,918.00

291,132.00

1,485,643.00

DEPARTMENT OFEDUCATION,ASSOCIATION OF
INDEPENDENTSCHOOLS OF WA INC,
SCIENCE TEACHERSASSN OF WA INC,XCALIBUR AVIATION(AUSTRALIA) PTY LTD,
INTERNATIONAL
GRAPHITE LIMITED,THE TRUSTEE FORYOUNG ENGINEERSHOLDING UNIT TRUSTThe University of Western Australia
LP230200701

Evaluating the benefits of teacher training in Einsteinian science

The Einstein-First school science education program developed by this team has
Blair, Em/Prof David
been taken up by more than 50 schools and was launched nationally in 2023. It
Gaims to revitalise physical science education across school years 3-10. With
early introduction of modern concepts we aim to allow everyone to share therevelations of modern science and our best understanding of the universe. Microcredential courses and other training vehicles have seen teachers develop
confidence and enthusiasm for the new materials. This proposal will evaluate andoptimise the teacher training programs, and measure the outcomes in terms ofour primary goals of encouraging more students, and especially girls, to choose
STEM options with view to future careers.

National Interest Test Statement
Einstein-First is a national education project aiming to solve three related problems: Students’ declining attitudes towards Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the STEM skills crisis, and widespread antiscience sentiments, arising from ignorance of the revelations of modern science. To solve these problems we created Eight Steps to Einstein’s Universe, a program in which exciting, relevant modern science is taught over four
years of primary school and four years of middle school. Supported by abundant evidence for the effectiveness of this program, we developed training programs for upskilling teachers, raised industry funding to take the program
across Australia, expanded the program to 50 schools, held a national launch at the Australian Academy of Science in Canberra, received national funding to provide free micro-credential training for teachers in 2024, and funds fora related program called Quantum Girls. To reap the national benefits we aim for, we need to make sure that our training programs are optimised, that our trained teachers do indeed transfer enthusiasm for science to theirstudents, and that more students, especially girls, go on to choose STEM options and aim for STEM careers. This will be of benefit to the economy and increase the pool of people able to undertake the innovations required to copewith the challenges of the future. We aim to make our programs widely and freely available for the benefit of all schools, and the nation.
LP230200867
Sun, Prof Hongqi

Novel decarbonisation via producing lithium carbonate with carbon
emissions

220,051.00

245,479.00

220,427.00

0.00

0.00

685,957.00

TIANQI LITHIUM
KWINANA PTY LTD

As a critical metal, lithium will play a pivotal role in energy transition. Tianqi
Lithium Kwinana is the first to produce battery-grade lithium in Australia incommercial quantities in May 2022. This project aims to make its refining process
greener through effective decarbonisation and waste management. This project
expects to generate new knowledge in the area of decarbonising the refining
processes of critical minerals. Expected outcomes include a new technology forlocking carbon dioxide into lithium products, and a novel approach for managing
refinery waste. This should provide significant benefits, such as a boosted lithiumproduction capacity for Australia’s exports, and invented leading technologies forcritical minerals industry.
National Interest Test Statement
Critical minerals have endowed Australia a world leading position in exploiting and producing key products for energy transition to a net zero future. As a typical product, lithium plays a pivotal role in manufacturing batteries, whichpower a range of electronic products. Until May 2022, Tianqi Lithium Kwinana firstly produced battery-grade lithium in Australia in commercial quantities, but current process generates heavy carbon emissions and substantial
nonlithium waste. This project aims to address such serious issues, benefiting the whole emerging lithium industry in Australia. The research gaps of decarbonising hard rocks lithium processing and converting non-lithium waste tovalue-added products will be addressed. This research will boost Australia’s lithium production capacity to support the battery manufacturing industry and enhance export value. The outcomes will also help to convert the lithiumrefining waste to commercial products for greater economic value. The project significantly contributes to decarbonisation, not just broadly promoting energy transition by providing critical minerals but decarbonising the lithiumrefining process itself. Therefore, it will help Australia achieve the ambitious decarbonisation and net zero targets and make considerable steps in mitigating the effects of climate change. The research outcomes are expected to be
adopted by other lithium industries beyond Tianqi and make positive impact to the whole sector of critical minerals.

* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 37 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)(Column 10)LP230200910

221,425.00

272,890.00

213,110.00

0.00

0.00

707,425.00

LLOYD’S REGISTER
EMEA, NORWEGIANGEOTECHNICALINSTITUTE PTY LTD,
SHELL AUSTRALIA PTY
LTD, RWE OFFSHORE
WIND GMBH,
WOODSIDE ENERGYGROUP LTD, ARUP PTY
LIMITED, DELFT
UNIVERSITY OF
TECHNOLOGY,
NETHERLANDS

Quantifying the benefits of time for deep foundations in fine-grained soils

Despite increasing demand for foundations in wind & solar farms, transportation
Lehane, Prof Barry& mining infrastructure, as well as coastal & offshore developments, currentM
methods of assessing their axial capacity in fine-grained soil are flawed andoutdated. This project addresses an urgent need for improved reliability andreduced costs by integrating empirical, numerical and theoretical state-of-the-art
approaches in a unique and innovative manner. The project will develop a longawaited design method for displacement foundations that incorporates the criticaleffect of time in its formulation. This advancement will create significant costsavings in upcoming renewable energy projects, as well as in traditional
infrastructural developments.

National Interest Test Statement
Displacement foundations are the backbone to Australia's construction and energy sectors, being essential for onshore and offshore infrastructure. However, poor reliability in current design techniques results in costly andinefficient foundation solutions. This project will employ a comprehensive and targeted campaign of field and laboratory experiments, combined with numerical support, to develop a new and robust methodology for the
displacement foundation design in fine grained soil. A key feature of this approach is the incorporation of time since installation in the formulations, recognising its significant influence on axial capacity – a crucial aspect that isoverlooked in existing approaches. The step-change increase in dependability of the new approach will lead to more efficient designs with an estimated annual saving, based on data from the Piling & Foundation Specialist
Federation, of at least $75M for Australia’s displacement pile industry alone. By prioritising efficiency and cost-effectiveness, this initiative aligns seamlessly with the government's national interest in sustainable infrastructuredevelopment, particularly in wind and solar energy infrastructure, while positively impacting existing sectors that are critical to Australia's economic success. The project represents an essential step towards aligning economic
prosperity and environmental sustainability in Australia.
LP230201028
Lei, A/Prof Wen

Bandgap engineered bismuth chalcogenides for uncooled infrared
detectors

281,826.00

273,976.00

276,676.00

0.00

0.00

832,478.00

PLANARTECH UK
LIMITED

Uncooled infrared detectors are core enabling technologies in civilian anddefense applications such as night vision, surveillance, automated driving, andfirefighting. However, the industry application of two-dimensional materials in
uncooled infrared detectors is hindered by their low device performance and poor
fabrication scalability. This project aims to develop low-cost, high performance
uncooled infrared detectors with high fabrication scalability by growing bandgap
engineered two-dimensional bismuth chalcogenides with controlled doping andenhanced light absorption. This will place Australia in a very competitive positionin the billion-dollar uncooled infrared detector market whilst benefit relevant
Australian industry sectors.
National Interest Test Statement
High performance uncooled infrared detectors are core technologies for various civilian and defense applications such as night vision, surveillance, automated driving, firefighting, environment monitoring, and many others. They
present a multi-billion-dollar market which is currently dominated by overseas manufacturers. Despite the intensive research on two dimensional materials for fabricating uncooled infrared detectors, their industry applications havebeen hindered by low device performance and poor fabrication scalability. This project will combat this research gap and provide low-cost solutions through industry-breaking technologies that will solve these prevalent issues. This
project will place Australia in the forefront of this technology, and enable Australia to be first to the market. The availability of this new technology will contribute to the long-term development of relevant core Australian industry
sectors, and thus benefit the Australian economy, society, environment, national security and international image. Any outcomes deemed patentable will be lodged with the patent office, and outcomes of significant technology
developments will be presented in public lectures and relevant industry forums with the aim of translating them to industry manufacturing, production, and potential export.
The University of Western Australia

1,023,022.00

1,089,072.00

1,008,359.00

299,918.00

291,132.00

3,711,503.00

Western Australia

1,182,464.00

1,195,450.00

1,105,150.00

299,918.00

291,132.00

4,074,114.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 38 of 39

Minister's Approval for Linkage Projects 2023 Round 2 for Funding Commencing in 2024 Schedule
Approved
Approved Research Program
Organisation,
Leader ofApproved
Research Program(Columns 1 and 2) (Column 3)

Estimated andApproved
Expenditure ($)

Indicative Funding ($)

Total ($)

Partner Organisation(s)(Column 10)2024-25(Column 4)2025-26*(Column 5)2026-27*(Column 6)2027-28*(Column 7)2028-29*(Column 8)(Column 9)12,809,371.00

13,698,068.00

12,431,680.00

2,843,152.00

1,322,436.00

43,104,707.00* Note - Indicative funding for approved projects will be made available through a funding variation under section 54 of the ARC Act

Page 39 of 39