Finding opportunities through research, and translation and commercialisation
The Department of State Development (DSD) works closely with industry, universities, research organisations and governments to promote research collaboration and investment and grow South Australia’s reputation for competitive global excellence in research.
We also support the adoption and application of new technologies and better practices to support research translation and commercialisation.
We want to see stronger translation and commercialisation outcomes to drive greater real-world productivity impacts, as well as an increased proportion of South Australian businesses and research organisations that collaborate for innovation purposes, and more startups and scale-ups developing innovative solutions.
South Australia's opportunity
Research and innovation activities, alongside the adoption of existing and emerging technologies, are key drivers of productivity growth and will be crucial for South Australian businesses to compete on the world stage.
South Australia’s Economic Statement outlines a vision for an economy that is fit for the future – that is smart, sustainable and inclusive.
South Australia boasts world-class research capability and globally recognised innovation districts. We now have the opportunity to enhance collaboration across all sectors of our economy.
To improve our performance and position South Australia to benefit from research, technology and innovation, we must capitalise on our research strengths, major investments and assets. We must also boost collaboration between industry and researchers, and support innovation and entrepreneurship networks, to translate knowledge into innovation and higher productivity.
Support programs for South Australian science and research
Research and Innovation Fund
The Research and Innovation Fund (RIF) supports local businesses and organisations to commercialise their innovative research, ideas or products – either through direct grants, or by funding activity (including events, accelerators program and co-working spaces) in support of the broader research and innovation ecosystem.
South Australian CRC Assistance Program
The Department of State Development joins the Australian Government in funding Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs).
CRCs are medium to long term collaborations between industry, researchers and end users, established to solve complex, industry identified problems. There are currently 10 CRCs that are either headquartered or have a significant node in South Australia.
National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy
The Department of State Development supports the operations of six major research facilities in the state, as part the Australian Government’s National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS).
NCRIS facilities provide researchers with access to globally competitive, cutting-edge research equipment and technical support.
Meet the Chief Scientist of South Australia
Professor Craig Simmons FAA FTSE, the Chief Scientist for South Australia is a passionate South Australian, groundwater scientist and respected research leader.
Watch the 5-minute video at to learn more about our state’s Chief Scientist, his background, key priorities, challenges and opportunities, and the importance of everyone’s responsibility to keep science, visible, relevant and engaging.
South Australian Scientist of the Year
Professor Jamie Craig
Representing Flinders University and the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Professor Craig is recognised for his research into the way glaucoma is detected and managed.
Innovator of the Year sponsored by the University of Adelaide.
The ZEISS PhotoFusion X Team
The development of lenses offering market-leading speeds for darkening in response to bright light when outdoors, and fade back to clear when returning indoors, without compromising clarity or UV protection.
Meet all 2024 winners
Congratulations to all winners and finalists of the 2024 SA Science Excellence and Innovation Awards.
Learn more about the outstanding work of each winner by visiting scienceawards.sa.gov.au.
South Australia's Innovation Districts
A new statewide innovation model
The South Australian Government is introducing a new statewide innovation model to strategically connect the state’s growing innovation districts, including Lot Fourteen, Tonsley and Adelaide BioMed City.
The model will bring together all economic activity zones and innovation assets under a centralised strategic vision and policy position, unlocking greater value, stimulating economic growth, supporting valuable international knowledge transfer and collaboration, and creating new opportunities for jobs growth, linking education, skills and workforce programs.
It seeks to capitalise on South Australia’s competitive advantage in defence, space, advanced manufacturing and critical technologies industries.
SA Science Excellence and Innovation Awards
The South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards recognise the work of inspiring science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) leaders and teams working in research and education institutions, schools, industry and the community.
Get help navigating opportunities in research
There are experienced DSD team members available to support your growth ambitions – whether that be help with workforce development, navigating government and other support programs, connecting with peers and industry leaders, or the adoption of new technologies.
