Monash Memo - 6 June 2001

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Taking research through to job creation

Federal and state ministers last week joined Monash vice-chancellor Professor David Robinson and more than 100 industry representatives to launch the concept of the $300 million Monash Science Technology Research and Innovation Precinct on the Clayton campus.

The precinct, to be developed in stages over the next 10 years, will enable research with commercial potential to be developed through incubation to new products or industries in an environment closely connected with Monash researchers and students.

Deputy vice-chancellor (Resources) Ms Alison Crook said the concept was the result of extensive investigation of the factors that make for success in research clusters, CRCs, technology parks, incubators, accelerators and industry clusters both nationally and internationally.

"We have carefully designed a synergistic environment that will deliver the necessary interaction and support services," she said.

Speaking at the concept launch of the new centre, Victorian State and Regional Development Minister Mr John Brumby said the project was an important initiative not only for Victoria but also for Australia.

"It embodies the courage of the vision we need if we are to transform our environment and create job opportunities in Australia," he said.

Federal Industry, Science and Resources Minister Senator Nick Minchin congratulated Monash on developing the concept in line with the government's innovation action plan 'Backing Australia's Ability'.

"It's a great example of what we are trying to achieve," he said.

The Monash centre will be multidisciplinary in its approach, particularly involving the faculties of Science, Information Technology, Medicine, Engineering and Pharmacy, with other faculties providing expert knowledge and advice.

It provides opportunities for business and industry to be located in an innovation cluster within a geographical area that has the highest aggregation of researchers and advanced manufacturing industries in Australia.

A key component of the second stage of the new precinct will be a technology school for secondary students that will stimulate interest in science by exposing students to the possibilities that spring from research.

Monash students will also be able to work part-time on campus in jobs directly related to their academic interests.

Project champion Dr Tom Forgan, who founded the Australian Technology Park in Sydney, said the strength of the Monash concept was in locating the centre within one of its own campuses.

He said the precinct would tap into Australia's largest industrial hub including IT, scientific, medical, advanced materials, plastics, transport and equipment manufacturing.

(From left) Vice-chancellor Professor David Robinson unveils the model of the new precinct with Senator Nick Minchin and Mr John Brumby.