The 2011 Roadmap articulates the priority research infrastructure areas of a national scale (capability areas) to further develop Australia’s research capacity and improve innovation and research outcomes over the next five to ten years. The capability areas have been identified through considered analysis of input provided by stakeholders, in conjunction with specialist advice from Expert Working Groups.
Capability areas identified in previous Roadmaps have received substantial investments through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, the Super Science Initiative and the Education Investment Fund. Facilities established under these initiatives are delivering high quality research infrastructure services to a broad base of users, and a number have been recognised as world-leading initiatives. The 2011 Roadmap highlights the need to sustain high performing facilities that remain a national priority, to ensure the availability of infrastructure services on which researchers and the sector can rely. Future funding for national, collaborative research infrastructure will be subject to Australian Government budget decision processes.