This means identifying industry partners whose long-term interests and capabilities align with the university’s research strengths and institutional mission. It also means being proactive in cultivating relationships that are not only commercially viable but socially meaningful – partnerships that serve the dual purpose of driving innovation and addressing societal needs, such as sustainability, equity, and public health.
Selective partnering also allows for the building of institutional memory and trust. Long-term collaborations that span multiple projects and levels of engagement – from student placements to joint research centres – are more likely to produce transformative outcomes than one-off consultancies or disconnected projects.
Building for Scale: From Islands of Excellence to Systems of Innovation
Australia boasts several high-performing university–industry partnerships – whether in quantum computing, hydrogen technology, or precision medicine – yet these often remain ‘islands of excellence.’ The challenge is to move from isolated successes to system-wide transformation.
This requires a multi-pronged approach:
Stronger institutional frameworks: Create dedicated units within universities that can act as trusted intermediaries between academics and industry, supported by legal, commercial, and project management expertise.
Co-investment in shared infrastructure: Governments and industries should co-fund national research facilities and testbeds, enabling more equitable access to technology, data, and expertise.
Policy alignment and regulatory agility: Flexible regulatory frameworks are needed to support innovation in emerging fields, alongside policies that reward long-term partnerships over short-term transactions.
Talent pipelines and skills integration: Partnerships should not only focus on research but also on developing the talent required for future industries. Integrated programs that embed students and early-career researchers within industry contexts can enhance employability and drive knowledge exchange.
Looking Ahead: Towards a More Connected Innovation Future
Universities are not just sites of knowledge production – they are anchor institutions in their communities, uniquely placed to convene cross-sectoral partnerships for public good. As we look ahead, the next generation of university–industry collaboration must be underpinned by three guiding principles: scalability, selectivity, and social impact.
Scalable partnerships require sustained investment and institutional alignment. Selective engagement ensures depth over breadth, fostering relationships that are resilient and mutually reinforcing. And by embedding social impact into the heart of collaboration, universities and industries can help shape an innovation agenda that is both economically robust and ethically grounded.
Ultimately, rethinking university–industry engagement is not just a matter of strategy – it is a national imperative. In an uncertain world, our ability to build enduring, mission-driven partnerships will be key to navigating complexity and unlocking Australia’s innovation potential.
Authors:
Professor Prem Chhetri
Academic Director, International & Engagement, College of Business and Law
Professor Mathews Nkhoma
Associate Deputy Vice Chancellor, Strategy, International and Engagement, College of Business and Law
