• Experimental or theoretical work undertaken primarily to acquire new knowledge without a specific application in view
• Is carried out without looking for long term economic or social benefits other than the advancement of knowledge

Strategic Basic Research

• Research directed into specific broad areas in expectation of useful discoveries
• Research providing the broad base of knowledge necessary for the solution of recognised practical problems

Applied Research

Original work undertaken

• To acquire new knowledge with a specific application in view
• To determine the possible uses for the findings of basic research
• To determine new methods or ways of achieving some specific and pre-determined objectives

Experimental Development

• Systematic work using existing knowledge gained from research and/or practical experience for the purpose of creating new or improved materials, products, processes or services

Source of information: Australian Bureau of Statistics

Audit/Quality Assurance

Click here for an explanation of the difference between audit/quality assurance and research.