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Applied Research and Innovation Project

Empowering Victorian TAFEs to collaboratively design, lead, and deliver applied research that strengthens outcomes across the care and support economy.

About the Applied Research and Innovation (ARI) Project

The Applied Research and Innovation (ARI) Project is a two-year initiative funded by the Victorian Government and led by Holmesglen Institute.

This is the first project of its kind in Victoria, redefining vocational education’s role by enabling TAFE practitioners to lead real-world applied research addressing critical challenges in the care economy. The project is funded through a $2 million grant administered by the Office of TAFE Coordination and Delivery (OTCD).

 

Our mission is to bridge the gap between industry, academia, and government by fostering a culture of research-driven innovation that delivers practical, scalable solutions for this vital sector.

ARI-funded projects contribute to:

  • Real-world innovation across the Victorian care economy
  • Stronger partnerships between TAFEs, industry and community organisations
  • Evidence-based improvements in teaching, learning and workforce development
  • Enhanced applied research capability across the Victorian TAFE network
  • Practical, scalable solutions with measurable sector impact

Learn more about ARI and share information with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders (PDF 1.7mb)

Applied Research and Innovation Project snapshot

TAFEs unlocking new opportunities in the care economy

Holmesglen Institute’s $2 million Applied Research and Innovation (ARI) Project, funded by the Victorian Government, has announced four TAFEs will receive research grants. Read the full media release. 

ARI x AVETRA Workshop in July

The ARI team collaborated with AVETRA to deliver the workshop Writing with Clarity and Impact. This workshop explored practical approaches to conducting and communicating applied research in the VET sector. 

Participants examined different research lenses within action research, discussed how to position themselves and their projects when seeking funding, and explored strategies for finding relevant literature on emerging or highly specific topics. 

Through case studies and audience discussion, the session highlighted the importance of developing clear, concise research pitches, tailoring communication to different stakeholder groups, and using appropriate formats to share findings effectively. 

ARI x AVETRA Workshop

Your voice: 2025 and 2026 sector-wide survey results

The ARI Project conducted sector-wide surveys in 2025 and 2026 to better understand the experiences of people involved in applied research across Victoria’s TAFE sector. The surveys explored the key challenges people face, the skills they would like to develop, and opportunities to provide greater support and build applied research capability across the sector.

 

Key Finding: Systemic Barriers

Time release (35%) and uncertainty around research processes (33%) were identified as the main barriers to participating in applied research, highlighting where greater support could help researchers get involved.

Key Finding: Skill Demand 

Writing actionable reports (60%) and data analysis (56%) were identified as priority areas for skills development, with the 2026 workshop series providing practical opportunities to build these skills.

Key Finding: Mentorship Opportunities

Many respondents are new to research while a quarter possesses over 15 years of experience. ARI in action: Communities of practice bring researchers with different experience levels together for a self-sustaining mentorship ecosystem

Coming Soon: Applied Research Design and Methods Microcredential

As part of the ARI project, Holmesglen has led the development of a landmark microcredential for the Victorian TAFE sector. The microcredential guides you through the complete research lifecycle - from defining a local problem and navigating ethics to co-designing with partners, translating findings into impact and leading a sustainable research culture. 

This microcredential allows you to document your impact, build leadership capacity, and join a state-wide network of research-active professionals.

We look forward to sharing further announcements about opportunities to participate in this first-of-its-kind program at Holmesglen. 

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For general enquiries or to receive direct registration links for upcoming workshops:

Contact us at: appliedresearch@holmesglen.edu.au