The SERD Panel has Issued a New Issues Paper for Feedback with Proposed Reforms to the RDTI

The Strategic Examination of Research and Development (SERD) has published a new issues paper (RD&I incentives: Incentivising breakthrough innovation and ambitious R&D) to collect feedback on ways to enhance research, development and innovation incentives to foster greater ambition. It sets out how incentives, including proposed reforms to the Research and Development Tax Incentive (RDTI), can be better directed to support growth and achieve greater economic and social impact.

Among the proposed changes are tailored streams for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises; simplified eligibility and assessment processes; provision of advanced payments and challenge-based funding; and an emphasis on supporting firms that align with national priorities and demonstrate high growth potential. Notably, the reforms also suggest possible new eligibility requirements for SMEs and large enterprises to better target incentives toward businesses focused on growth.

Upon initial review, the proposed changes encompass both positive and negative reforms to the RDTI program. MJA will deliver a fuller update with our reaction in the coming week.

The independent panel is seeking feedback via the consultation hub by 30 September 2025.