Firstly, we would both like to thank you for your continuing support of the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Construction Innovation.

Since our formation in 2001, we have worked collaboratively with our industry, government and research partners to contribute positively to the industry:

Why are we asking you to do this? Over the next 12 months, a Federal Government panel will be listening to arguments for funding renewal from Cooperative Research Centres. The renewal process will commence in March when first stage submissions are due and conclude in December when the Minister for Education, Science and Training will announce the successful applicants.

The competition for funding is intense.

I encourage all our collaborative partners to become involved by advocating the importance of our work, not just for the future of Construction Innovation but for the entire design, property, construction and facility management sectors.

Everyone has the right to express their opinions to the government and to attempt to influence the policy and decision-making process. Advocacy is an important part of our democratic process.

Some suggested ways you can actively influence the funding renewal process might include:

Sending a letter to a relevant Minister or Member of Parliament outlining the benefits that innovation and research can bring to your sector of the wider construction industry. We will supply you with suggested letters.

Convey the importance of Construction Innovation's work when you meet with Ministers or Members of Parliament. You will be able to download the latest key messages from our website to help shape a powerful argument.

When speaking with the media or other people in positions of influence within our industry, highlight specific examples of how and where the tools Construction Innovation has created with our collaborative partners have impacted your members, businesses and the wider community.

We have a chance to make our industry stronger. We will do that by being innovative while creating a more sustainable, safer and profitable industry. I look forward to working with you to ensure we can help keep the innovative spirit alive in our industry.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact either one of us if you have any concerns or questions.

 

 

John McCarthy	Dr Keith Hampson
Chair	Chief Executive Officer
CRC for Construction Innovation	CRC for Construction Innovation