Aust research scientists get $1.9b boost

Institutions researching cancer, cyber security and management of the Great Barrier Reef are among those that will benefit from $1.9 billion in federal government infrastructure funding.

Education Minister Simon Birmingham says the Research Infrastructure Investment Plan responds to recommendations made by scientists, including Australia's Chief Scientist Alan Finkel.

"We're thrilled to back the people who are making such a difference to help boost the lives and productivities of Australians and people the world over," Senator Birmingham told reporters in Adelaide on Tuesday.

"We're committing this extra funding of $1.9 billion to help people invest in the new kit, new equipment that will keep our researchers at the cutting edge of global development."

Among the groups to receive funding will be the Australian National Fabrication Facility, the Integrated Marine Observing System and the Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Facility.

Senator Birmingham made the announcement alongside Dr Finkel, Senator Michaelia Cash and MP Nicolle Flint at the University of Adelaide - another site which will benefit.

Dr Finkel said the facilities that will receive the funding are "places of possibility" and the long-term commitment has been welcomed by the research community.

"These are the kinds of facilities that attract international researchers to come and set up in our country," he said.

"They're the facilities that help our universities to rise in the global rankings... and lead to the research outputs that underpin the next generation of manufacturing that underpins jobs, prosperity and health in our country."