Australia’s national research infrastructure is set for a significant boost, with the Australian Government committing an additional $323.7 million through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
National Research Infrastructure (NRI) is essential to breakthrough research discoveries, adapting to new technologies and addressing global challenges. This year marks an incredible milestone for NCRIS – 20 years of powering Australian and global innovations and driving real-world impact.
‘Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, one of the really special things about NCRIS is that it funds both equipment and people. Put simply, scientists need cutting edge kit, but top global talent is the key to really unlocking the benefits of even the coolest new toys,’ said Assistant Minister for International Education Jullian Hill, ‘Through NCRIS, the Government is not only supporting cutting-edge facilities, but also the expertise needed to translate data into real-world outcomes. This is about ensuring Australia remains globally competitive, while building a more productive, resilient and forward-looking economy now and for the next generation.’
As part of this announcement, the Australian National Fabrication Facility will receive $6.1m to address Australia’s strategic science and research priorities, benefit industry and keep Australians at the forefront of scientific innovation.
This support brings the total sum of NCRIS funding for ANFF to $128.5m for the period of 2023-2028. These NCRIS investments are a validation of what ANFF is contributing to Australia’s national innovation ecosystem and will continue to secure ANFF’s operations in two key areas.
Translational NRI: These NRI investments provide targeted support for research and development projects that are moving closer to being products and deployable technologies.
ANFF is partnering with Adelaide University to create the Technology Readiness Accelerator (TRAX) Facility. This extension of ANFF-SA’s Precision Engineering Centre will contain innovative fabrication capabilities that enable novel prototypes and proof-of-manufacturing activities. TRAX will de-risk commercialisation of Australian research.
ANFF is also partnering with the University of Western Australia to make infrared imaging technology at ANFF-WA. This investment will enable complete, ready‑to‑use infrared detector packages that can be integrated into existing platforms for defence and sensing applications.
ANFF Core Infrastructure: ANFF is investing in essential upgrades and expertise across its national network to strengthen reliable access to key fabrication capabilities. This funding will replace ageing tools, enhance facility infrastructure and sustain the specialist workforce that supports users. Together, these investments ensure researchers and industry can continue to access high‑quality, industry relevant capabilities across Australia.
ANFF CEO Dr Jane Fitzpatrick said, ‘ANFF is delighted to have some important, forward-looking projects funded in both NCRIS 2025 and NCRIS 2026. We will use this investment to strengthen our industry-relevant services and help more of our locally developed technologies find their way to the market.’
Through the Australian National Fabrication Facility, researchers access almost 700 advanced micro- and nanofabrication instruments across a national network of open facilities. This capability supports design and manufacture at the micro- and nanoscale for defence, sensing, medtech, photonics and quantum technology. ANFF links research with application, accelerating delivery and generating economic and societal benefit for Australia.
To read Assistant Minister Hill’s statement, go to https://www.education.gov.au/newsroom/articles/major-investment-enhance-national-research-infrastructure.
For the full list of funded NCRIS projects, go to https://www.education.gov.au/national-research-infrastructure/resources/ncris-202526-funding-opportunity-funding-projects
Read more about how ANFF empowers our clients in our 2024 Casebook and 2025 Casebook.
Posted 8 June 2026