A4Introduction

A4.                   Introduction

A4.1               Objectives

A4.1.1            The Discovery Program aims to deliver outcomes of benefit to Australia and build Australia’s research capacity through support for:

a.            excellent, internationally competitive research by individuals and teams;

b.            research training and career opportunities for the best Australian and international researchers;

c.            international collaboration; and

d.            research in priority areas.

A4.2               Overview

A4.2.1            These Funding Rules are a legislative instrument current as at the date of signing by the Minister and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the ARC Act in force then.

A4.2.2            These Funding Rules relate to schemes funded under the Discovery Program of the NCGP. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.

A4.2.3            The Discovery Program schemes provide funding to Administering Organisations to support research Projects.

A4.2.4            Discovery Program funding will be awarded on the basis of excellence through a competitive peer review process for each scheme.

A4.2.5            The ARC undertakes periodic evaluations of the performance and administration of the schemes under the NCGP.

A4.2.6            The Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the Discovery Program are specified each year in the ARC Portfolio Budget Statements and the ARC Corporate Plan. The KPIs focus on long-term outcomes as well as medium-term outcomes relating to building Australia’s research capacity, for example, research careers and training, contributions in areas of national need and research collaboration. These are addressed each year in the ARC’s annual report.