The CRC for Construction Innovation has formally applied for renewal funding, having submitted its 2006 CRC Selection Round Stage One application in late March.
"We're excited by the opportunity that renewal funding presents for our partners, the industry and everybody working on our projects," said Dr Keith Hampson, CEO of Construction Innovation.
Construction Innovation began its seven-year CRC funding cycle in July 2001 and (without renewal funding) is due to conclude its research in July 2008.
"The CRC selectionprocess is very competitive. OurStage One application was very strong and we have very significant support from the property, design, construction and facility management sectors.
"As a team we worked on our Stage One application for several months. It focuses on bringing greater productivity and sustainability to the industry through three key areas: tools, processes and skills," Dr Hampson said.
Twenty-five organisations signed the 'Intention to Participate' section of the Stage One application: 12 existing and 13 new partners.
"We're particularly delighted so many of our existing partners are continuing with us into the new CRC for Construction Innovation. I think that is indicative of the fantastic work we have accomplished over the past five years," Dr Hampson said.
"And I heartily look forward to the opportunity to work with all our new partners."
New partners also include key industry organisations representing more than 200,000members of the Australian construction industry.
The 2006 CRC Selection Round process continues until the end of the year. The successful Stage One applicants will be notified in late-May and invited to submit Stage Two applications by 18 August 2006. A short-list of those applicants will be created in October/November and interviews conducted.
The Minister for Education, Science and Training will announce the successful CRCs in late-December. The new CRCs will begin operations on 1 July 2007.
