The CRC will engage in education and training, and conduct four main research programs covering:

* more productive materials; * life extension and asset management; * design; * public safety and security of supply.

Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation and Industry Richard Marles, who launched the centre, said that the CRC will play a vital role in developing safe and efficient pipeline infrastructure and services which are critical to Australia’s economic and social growth.

“The centre will receive $A17.48 million of CRC program funding over ten years, complemented by CRC partner cash and in-kind contributions of around $A70.6 million,” Mr Marles said.

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“Its work will help to extend the life of existing pipeline networks and facilitate construction of new networks for transmission of gas and other emerging energy cycle fluids, supporting an accessible and affordable energy supply for Australians.

“Pipelines are the essential link in transporting gas from gas fields to markets.”

The CRC group said that such research could meet the key challenges facing the Australian industry, such as how to build pipelines for new energy gases in the context of location urbanisation and a skills shortage.

The CRC is led by the Australian Pipeline Industry Association Research and Standards Committee (APIA RSC) and involves the University of Wollongong, the University of Adelaide, Australian National University and Monash University.