Australia’s innovation ecosystem is growing, with a focus on turning research into real-world impact. CSIRO’s ON Innovation Program has been supporting researchers to take ideas from the lab to the market for nearly a decade.
The ON Program equips researchers with skills, networks, and pathways to create impact. Since 2015, the program has helped over 7,800 researchers across 62 organisations. More than 700 deep-tech jobs have been created, and alumni have secured over $750 million in funding and grants.
ON Core 2025 highlighted the importance of embedding a mindset of research translation. Researchers are encouraged to plan for impact from the start. The program supports all stages of innovation, from university labs to commercial startups.
CSIRO initiatives strengthen the innovation system. Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) helps move research-led innovations to market. Main Sequence Ventures (MSV), a deep-tech investment fund, backs startups emerging from research. Partnerships with universities and industry accelerate collaboration and commercial outcomes.
The program is evolving to meet the needs of researchers. Pathways are mapped to guide teams to the right support. New initiatives focus on inclusivity and learning from global innovation leaders. Collaboration with diverse communities ensures a wider range of perspectives in innovation.
The future of Australia’s research-to-impact journey depends on collective effort. Researchers, industry, investors, and communities must work together. Innovation succeeds when knowledge, skills, and resources are shared to create real-world change.