Long-term, transformative investments in universities do not fit well with the short-term, budget constrained priorities of governments. Shutterstock

How philanthropy could change higher education funding

For universities in Australia to get the most out of philanthropic donations, they need to develop persuasive cases for giving, and work with staff, communities and donors towards shared goals.
The Turnbull government’s ‘ideas boom’ is not that dissimilar to innovation plans that have come before it. Mick Tsikas/AAP

Turnbull still hasn’t sold us on the innovation dream

For many, innovation is perceived as a precursor to more unwelcome changes at work and potentially to job losses, but innovation is about more than increasing corporate profits.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull understands innovation, but the government still lacks a coherent innovation plan. Mick Tsikas/AAP

The government’s focus on innovation is too narrow

A coherent innovation policy requires a focus on fostering networks, and learning from economies similar to ours.
If Australia wants to be a leading force in the knowledge economy, strategic investment in university research and infrastructure will be essential. Novartis AG

A smart strategy to drive Australia’s knowledge economy

At a time when unprecedented levels of investment are being made in university infrastructure in nations such as China and India, it is worth reflecting on how Australia has built its notable areas of…
In the UK, innovation and research has been at the forefront of the government’s economic policy agenda. bisgovuk

Innovation or stagnation? Lessons Australia could learn from the UK

After decades in the wilderness, industry policy is back centrally on the economic agenda in the UK. What is striking is how the policy is being driven by strong evidence on what works from years of accumulated…

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