The feds’ new trailblazer uni programme (CMM yesterday) requires participants to have “innovative” IP arrangement – which seems remarkably relaxed

Back in July the federal government convened an expert-group to create an IP framework for universities and industry to use.

What the government wanted was a way of “transferring publicly funded research results into breakthrough products and new businesses (which) will ensure our researchers and universities are appropriately rewarded for their discoveries and their engagement with business, and our businesses have certainty to back their investment.” (CMM July 5, September 22)

But the consultation plan experts assembled was greeted with hard noes from peak applied research representatives, the Australian Technology Network, the Group of Eight and Science and Technology Australia (CMM October 20).

And now instead of a mandatory IP framework the government’s first major research translation programme requires “innovative IP arrangements”.