The role of Research and Technology Organisations in contemporary innovation systems: An assessment of Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is an Australian icon, but its role as a Research and Technology Organisation in the national innovation system is not well understood. Based on key stakeholder interviews, this study finds that the CSIRO has three primary roles in the Australian national innovation system: delivering long term outcome focused research in national challenges and mission; managing national facilities and collections on behalf of the innovation system; and playing a system intermediary and leadership role. Overall, the study highlights the importance of analysing intermediaries, such as CSIRO, to enhance understandings of national innovation systems.