The Research Training Scheme (RTS) aims to recognise and reward those higher education provider that provide high-quality research training environments and support excellent and diverse research activities. The scheme will strengthen Australia’s knowledge base and research capabilities by enhancing the effectiveness of the research and research training system in the higher education sector.
The RTS will provide Commonwealth-funded higher degree by research (HDR) students with an ‘entitlement’ to a HECS exemption for the duration of an accredited HDR course, up to a maximum period of four years’ full-time equivalent study for a Doctorate by research and two years’ full-time equivalent study for a Masters by research.
Funds will be provided to eligible higher education providers based on a formula that reflects each higher education provider's research performance. The formula takes into account HDR completions (50%), research income (40%) and research publications (10%).