15/06/2026
🇪🇺🤝🇦🇺 Continuing the celebration of a new chapter in Australia–EU research cooperation.
Following the high-level policy dialogue in Canberra, we were delighted to co-host the Sydney edition of Connected Continents: A New Era of EU–Australia Research Cooperation through Horizon Europe at The University of Sydney.
Bringing together leaders from universities, industry, research organisations, government and diplomacy, the event shifted the conversation from policy to practice, exploring how Australian stakeholders can engage with Horizon Europe and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
The event featured:
✅ Keynote Address: Senator the Hon Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Science
✅ European Commission Perspective: Ms Maria Cristina Russo, Deputy Director-General for Research and Innovation, European Commission, and Chief Negotiator for Horizon Europe Association
The event was opened by Professor Mark Scott AO, Vice-Chancellor and President, The University of Sydney, and concluded with closing remarks from Professor Attila Brungs AO, Vice-Chancellor and President, UNSW Sydney.
The event also included a panel discussion on Horizon Europe: Unlocking Opportunities, featuring perspectives from academia, government, industry, national research organisations and New Zealand's research and innovation ecosystem. Thank you to our distinguished panellists:
🔹 Professor Deborah Terry AC, Vice-Chancellor and President, The University of Queensland
🔹 Mr Anthony McGregor, Department of Industry, Science and Resources
🔹 Professor Elanor Huntington, CSIRO
🔹 Ms Gina Williamson, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (New Zealand)
🔹 Mr Martin Rampl, Frequentis Australasia
A sincere thank you to all speakers, participants and partners who contributed to this important occasion.
The event was organised by the European Union Delegation to Australia, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, The Group of Eight, and EURAXESS Australia & New Zealand, and hosted by University of Sydney.
