2020 Rainmaker Readiness Grant - To Support Stage 2 submission for a Water in Northern Australia Co-operative Research Centre (WiNA CRC)

This application is to fund a Stage 2 submission for a Water in Northern Australia Co-operative Research Centre (WiNA CRC) lead from CDU. We used a 2019 Rainmaker Grant to support submission of the Stage 1 bid due July 30, 2020 which is on track. The Stage 1 process has gained great momentum and support from diverse sectors including primary industries, utilities and water services, mining and resources with health, Indigenous leadership, partnerships, education and training underpinning these sectors. This support is across the NT, WA, Qld and SA. Stage 2 requires more comprehensive details of project activities and research milestones; response to CRC Advisory Committee feedback (assessment criteria and detailing any changes between Stage 1 and Stage 2; comprehensive budget including partner contributions, completed impact tool and details of key staff. In order to do this, we require resources for workshops, travel (once borders are open), and continued support for CRC consultant Dr Paul Dalby who has been heavily involved in Stage 1 and successful in two of the last three CRCs in which he has been involved. We will also be required to complete a thorough cost-benefit assessment for which we will need a consultant, and we will need to promote the stage 2 application via meetings, website and publication quality materials.