The core R&D base consists of key competency platforms drawing together research fields and scientific disciplines assembled to align with the needs of specific government departments, primary, secondary and tertiary industry sectors and society in key areas of socio-economic impact. Each area understands strategic stakeholder requirements and focuses on managing a portfolio of S&T competencies and research directions that contribute most meaningfully to attainment of scientific objectives within the sectors addressed. Each area embraces R&D and R&D oucomes, which are handled as an integral part of the research and innovation value chain.
The following areas are defined:
Biosciences; built environment; defence, peace, safety and security; information and communications technology; laser technology; materials science and manufacturing; and natural resources and the environment.