There is a trend towards international networks in both research and e-commerce. Consequently, we are now moving towards keeping each other better informed while establishing closer cooperation. We have also held several discussions with the International Network for Acid Prevention with a view to assisting them in project management. New support structures are being formed across the globe but few are wound down. We are encouraging members to consolidate industry association activities and create a smaller number of viable bodies able to attract the quality staff needed to meet members expectations.
Discussions are under way to involve other research institutions in several countries.
Recently we held a business development workshop with the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Centre. We assisted the A J Parker CRC for Hydrometallurgy in achieving renewed funding. We introduced the G K Williams CRC for Pyrometallurgy to customers in North America and South Africa and liaised with the Centre for Mining Technology and Equipment in commercialisation arrangements. We are supporting the CRC for Landscape Evolution and Mineral Exploration in its bid for further funding and are supporting the development of new CRCs. It is important to recognise that this activity, currently capturing tens of millions of dollars for the industry in competition with other sectors, benefits our members across the globe who gain access to world class research.