Get help from a Research Service Provider (RSP)

1. Find RSPs

We publish a public list of RSPs when they register with us. We provide their location, contact information and research specialities. Search the RSP register to identify research service providers in the field(s) you require for your R&D activities.

2. Contact RSPs

Once you identify potential RSPs to work with, you should contact them to discuss your R&D and project needs. This will help you decide if they’re the right RSP for you.

3. Discuss IP arrangements and negotiate a contract

Discuss Intellectual Property arrangements with your chosen RSP and negotiate a contract for R&D services. The Department of Education has released a Higher Education Research Commercialisation Intellectual Property Framework that provides:

• step-by-step information to help you learn more about intellectual property in university-industry collaborative research
• standardised agreement templates to assist you in negotiations.

Find out more about registering intellectual property for your business.

4. Plan and conduct eligible R&D activities

Work with your RSP to plan and conduct your eligible R&D activities.

5. Keep records of eligible activities and expenditure

Keep records of the R&D activities your RSP conducts on your behalf and eligible R&D expenditure you incur on those activities. Read about eligible expenditure on the ATO website.

6. Apply to register for the R&D Tax Incentive

Apply to register your eligible R&D activities with us within 10 months of the end of the income year in which you conduct the activities. You must register with us before you claim the offset as part of your company’s income tax return.

7. Receive the benefit

Claim a tax offset through your company tax return with the ATO. Find out how to lodge your claim with the ATO.