Australia’s minister for industry and innovation and minister for science and the European commissioner for start-ups, research and innovation signed the treaty-level agreement in Brussels on 12 November 2026. This marks significant progress towards Australia's association to Horizon Europe in 2027.
Horizon Europe is the world’s largest pooled funding program for international research and innovation collaboration. Australia’s association opens the door to collaboration with European and other countries on major international research projects.
From 1 January 2027, Australian researchers, scientists and industry partners will be eligible, under transitional arrangements, to apply to access Horizon Europe Pillar 2 funding. This will enable them to lead and participate in cutting-edge research to tackle complex global challenges.
Access to the Horizon Europe ecosystem will strengthen Australia’s global research and innovation networks and deepen cooperation with like-minded partners, enhancing the country’s productivity and economy. It will support Australia’s science, innovation and economic cooperation with Europe in areas of shared strategic interest.
This includes space, clean energy, critical minerals, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, health and supply chain security.
Association to Horizon Europe supports Australia’s productivity and innovation agenda and a Future Made in Australia. It also supports the vision set out in the Ambitious Australia report for a more focused, connected and effective research and innovation system.
After signing, Australia and the European Union will continue their domestic treaty processes to bring the agreement into legal effect. Next steps include tabling the agreement in Parliament for scrutiny by the joint standing committee on Treaties.
“This is a big day for Australian research,” said Universities Australia chief executive officer Luke Sheehy, who joined a group of Australian university and business leaders at the formal signing ceremony.
“I congratulate Minister Ayres and the Albanese government on getting this done. It has taken years of patient work on both sides.
“Horizon Europe brings together leading researchers from across Europe and around the world to work on the problems that matter most. Australian researchers will now be part of that, working alongside European colleagues and turning good ideas into new industries and jobs here at home.
“Productivity and sovereign capability are national priorities. International research collaboration helps turn new knowledge into innovation, investment and the industries of the future, and this agreement puts Australia in a stronger position to do that.
“It is also an opportunity for universities right across Australia to take part in and lead international collaborations, and for the next generation of Australian researchers to build careers connected to the world.
“Many people have worked towards this moment, including the Group of Eight and colleagues across the university and research sector. It has been a shared effort.
“This should be the start of a long partnership with Europe. We look forward to working with the government and our European partners to make sure Australian researchers, students and universities get the most out of it.”
Australia’s participation in Horizon Europe will strengthen international research partnerships, support innovation and commercialisation, and expand opportunities in areas including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, health, critical minerals and emerging technologies.
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