The Morrison Government is backing the next generation of Australian technology pioneers by locking in $2 million to help deliver the future of energy resources innovation.

The funding has been made available through NERA (National Energy Resources Australia), the Government's Industry Growth Centre for the oil, gas and energy resources sector.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the funding will support collaborative industry projects that accelerate the commercialisation of science and technology in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.

“AI and robotics are critical to improving the productivity and safety of the energy resources sector,” Minister Andrews said.

“The Government is committed to helping industry adopt new technologies to increase competitiveness, grow our economy and create jobs for Australians.

“We are looking for projects which will strengthen Australia's position as a global hub for energy resources innovation and enhance our competitive advantage.”

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan said that Australia should be looking to add value to its natural resources.

“Australia is already an export leader in the raw materials of energy resources. By investing in our innovators and helping industry embrace new products and services, we can be a world leader in exportable technology solutions,” Minister Canavan said.

Supporting growth in Australia’s energy resources industry will be vital in reaching the Morrison Government’s target of 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years.

NERA is encouraging applicants from projects that have one or more of the following focus areas impacting the energy resources sector:

• Remote operations, robotics and artificial intelligence
• Unconventional gas technologies
• Hydrogen
• Decommissioning

Project applicants must have matched industry funding and projects must be undertaken in Australia.

Applications must be received by 30 September 2019. The funding is part of NERA’s collaborative $15.6 million Project Fund. For more information, visit www.nera.org.au