Australia and the EU Explore Collaboration Through Horizon Europe

Australia and the European Union have taken an important step toward deepening their research and innovation ties. On 10 September 2025, the Australian government and the European Commission announced that they have begun non-binding exploratory talks on the possibility of joining Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme.

Why Horizon Europe Matters

Horizon Europe is the world’s largest collaborative research fund, with a current budget of €95.5 billion over seven years (until 2027). It supports projects across a wide spectrum, from health and sustainability to advanced technologies and digitalisation, by linking research institutions, businesses, and policymakers across borders. For Australia, association would mean the ability to both participate in and lead Horizon Europe projects, joining a community of around 20 other non-EU associated countries, including New Zealand and Canada.

The Consultation Process

The Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources has now launched a public consultation to assess whether moving forward with formal negotiations would serve the national interest. Stakeholders ranging from universities and research institutes to SMEs, industry groups, and all levels of government are being invited to contribute their views. Feedback is encouraged from both supporters and critics of association. More details can be found here: Have Your Say: Association to Horizon Europe. As the Business Council we intend to participate in this consultation.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Australia’s research community has already voiced strong support. Universities Australia and the Group of Eight have both emphasised the strategic value of joining Horizon Europe, noting that participation would strengthen Australia’s global research competitiveness at a time when international partnerships are becoming more critical. They highlight opportunities in fields such as health, climate, and digital innovation—areas of shared priority with Europe.

What It Means for German-Australian Collaboration

For the German-Australian Business Council, these developments are highly relevant. Association with Horizon Europe would open new avenues for bilateral and multilateral partnerships involving German and Australian universities, research institutions, and innovative businesses. As both Europe and Australia seek to foster resilient, knowledge-driven economies, Horizon Europe could become a powerful platform for transnational collaboration.

This is still an early stage in the process. The exploratory talks are designed to clarify terms and principles before any binding agreement is considered. But the direction of travel is clear: both Australia and the EU are looking seriously at the opportunities Horizon Europe presents.

Together with our partners in the Australian Business in Europe (ABIE) network, the Business Council intends to actively engage with this process and we shall be contributing to the consultation. We’d welcome your thoughts and comments.