About ARIIA
Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) is an industry‑led, independent, not‑for‑profit organisation established to strengthen the capability and capacity of the aged care workforce to adopt and embed evidence‑based practice across the sector.
ARIIA supports the development and uptake of innovative products, technologies and approaches that improve the quality, safety and delivery of aged care services. Current work includes:
- an online Knowledge and Implementation Hub that provides access to up-to-date research and information resources
- Workforce Capability Programs, facilitated programs and short courses to support the implementation of innovation
- Aged Care Incubator, connecting and supporting partnerships between aged care providers, technology providers and researchers
- LIFT Leadership Program, that builds leadership capability of frontline and management staff
- Grants and Flagship Projects, providing targeted funding and support for translational research, innovation and large‑scale projects that address priority workforce and care challenges.
Priorities developed with the aged care sector include:
- dementia
- rehabilitation, reablement and restorative care
- mental health and wellbeing
- social isolation
- end of life and palliative care
- meaningful lifestyle activities
- projects with urgent and critical need.
Setting up ARIIA
ARIIA received initial Australian Government funding for its establishment and early operations through to 30 June 2024.
In recognition of ARIIA’s role in strengthening evidence use and innovation in aged care, a further $13 million in funding has been provided to support operations through to 30 June 2026.
ARIIA is supported by 73 partners, including research institutions, aged care service providers and peak bodies. These partnerships support strong engagement across the aged care sector and facilitate access to evidence, innovation and workforce expertise.
They actively engage with all industry partners including:
- researchers
- aged care providers and their workers
- people who receive aged care, their families and friends.
Flinders University was selected through a 2-step tender process to establish and operate ARIIA.
How ARIIA operates
During its establishment phase, Flinders University set up ARIIA as an independent organisation governed by an independent Board of Directors. The Board includes representation from aged care workforce representatives.
With funding secured through to 30 June 2026, ARIIA continues to focus on embedding evidence‑based practice, building workforce capability and supporting sector‑led innovation, while also exploring sustainable longer‑term funding models.
Learn more
Learn more about Aged Care Research & Industry Innovation Australia (ARIIA) on their website.