The Albanese Government has presented a bill to strengthen the Australian Research Council (ARC). 

The Australian Research Council Amendment (Review Response) Bill 2023, responding to recommendations from the ARC Review led by Professors Margaret Sheil AO, Susan Dodds, and Mark Hutchinson, was introduced in parliament on Wednesday.

Education Minister Jason Clare says reform is needed due to a history of political interference in ARC affairs. 

Clare stated that such interference had hindered universities in staff recruitment, retention, and tarnished the nation's global standing in research.

The bill implements six out of ten review recommendations, establishing an independent ARC Board responsible for approving grants within the National Competitive Grants Program. 

Funding guidelines, under ministerial responsibility, will undergo parliamentary scrutiny to prevent politicisation of research grant decisions.

Minister Clare reassured that the reform aimed to eliminate the ARC's misuse for political gains. 

He highlighted the significance of maintaining trust and confidence within the research sector while adapting the ARC to current and future needs.

Under the proposed changes, the minister retains authority to approve “nationally significant investments” for projects driving research, infrastructure, training, and collaboration. 

However, the minister may also use national security grounds to direct the ARC board regarding grant approvals or terminate funding, with obligatory parliamentary notification.

The bill, accessible on the Parliament of Australia website, aligns with the government's response to the ARC review, endorsing all recommendations. 

Regarding the evaluation of excellence and impact, the government will address this as part of the Australian Universities Accord, seeking a new model for measuring research outcomes.

Minister Clare has underscored the crucial role of the ARC in Australia's global research contribution, supporting various disciplines with over $895 million in research grants. 

He says the legislative changes aim to fortify the ARC's independence, rejuvenate its governance, and foster a research environment free from undue political influence.