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November 2025

In this last edition for 2025 we're highlighting recent activity across CSIRO's Innovation Programs, along with practical resources and upcoming opportunities. Take a look at what's happening as you shape your plans for 2026.

Celebrating Tidal Moon’s Prime Minister’s Prize win

A mixed group of two men and two women standing next to each other smiling while posing for the camera.

Tidal Moon is a marine business based in Shark Bay, Western Australia who were recently named the inaugural recipient of the Prime Minister's Prize for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems.

CSIRO has had the privilege of working with Tidal Moon through our Kick-Start program and Manufacturing and Environment teams, supporting their growth and their important work bringing Indigenous knowledge to the forefront of Australia's innovation landscape.

This recognition highlights Tidal Moon's leadership and the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems in shaping Australia's sustainable future. It's been a privilege for our teams to support them on their journey.

RUIC links industry challenge to university expertise

A new AI-supported telehealth pathway developed through the Queensland Government funded RUIC program is helping regional hip surgery patients recover at home with nurse-led remote monitoring, reducing travel burdens and enabling early risk identification.

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WAFEC delivers for growing manufacturer

Perth manufacturer Gourmania used a WA Food Industry Education Collaboration (WAFEC) Program internship to test new product development capabilities and gained both a redesigned process and a permanent team member.

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CSIRO programs

RUIC

The Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) is a Queensland Government-funded program delivered by CSIRO that provides Queensland-based SMEs with comprehensive support at every stage of their R&D journey, including free training, expert facilitation, and networking opportunities.

Innovate to Grow

This free 8-week online program helps Australian SMEs transform innovation ideas into viable R&D projects through expert mentorship, self-paced learning, and networking opportunities. Subscribe to our newsletter for 2026 cohort announcements.

Kick-Start

This program provides Australian start-ups and SMEs with dollar-matched funding of $10,000 to $50,000 to undertake collaborative research projects with CSIRO researchers.

WAFEC

Delivered by CSIRO on behalf of the Western Australia (WA) Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the program connects WA food and beverage businesses with STEM interns to support innovation and growth.

New CSIRO report

Advancing carbon removal innovation

In order to reach net zero, Australia must combine deep emissions reductions with large-scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from the atmosphere. The National Roadmap sets out how Australia can meet this challenge, accelerate the deployment of novel carbon removal technologies and position the nation as a global leader in this emerging field.

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Ecosystem opportunities

JP - AU Innovation Collaboration Program: Australian startups can now express interest in a guided pathway into Japan's manufacturing and innovation ecosystem, including co-creation, prototyping, and in-market engagement. If you're considering expansion into Asia or looking for the right technical partner, this opportunity may be a strong fit. Submit your EOI to learn more.

Rethinking success: What really matters in innovation

CSIRO Kick-Start Program Manager Megan Sebben chats with Climate Salad's Mick Liubinskas about startups, innovation, and measuring success beyond traditional metrics. In this engaging 20-minute conversation, Megan shares the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of Australian innovation.

Watch interview

Local innovation goes global with the RISE Accelerator

Australian agritech startups are expanding into new markets with support from CSIRO’s RISE Accelerator, discovering what it takes to scale their cutting-edge solutions to challenges in sustainable farming, food security, and climate resilience.

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