Evaluation of knowledge and innovation reforms: issues paper.

This issues paper addresses the Australian Government's policy framework for higher education research and research training. The paper identifies key issues for consideration as part of the evaluation of the reforms initiated with 'Knowledge and innovation: a policy statement on research and research training' in 1999 (indexed at TD/TNC 74.293). The evaluation was announced in May 2003 as part of the higher education reform package, 'Our universities: backing Australia's future', which aims to ensure that the policy and funding framework for Australia's block research funding schemes is effective and efficiently managed. Key areas of focus for the evaluation will be: the operation of the Research Training Scheme (RTS), the Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS), the Research Infrastructure Block Grants (RIBG) Scheme, and the Regional Support Package; the role of Research and Research Training Management Reports; and contestability of funding for the Institute of Advanced Studies of the Australian National University. A report on the outcomes of the evaluation will be provided to the Government later in 2003. Show less