The Australian and Brazilian governments have signed an agreement that will enable researchers from both countries to collaborate more closely on technology, innovation, and science projects.

The agreement signed by Australian Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science Arthur Sinodinos and Brazil's Ambassador to Australia Manuel Innocencio de Lacerda Santos Jr, builds on Australia's long-standing relationship with Brazil, and will support institution-to-institution and researcher-to-researcher links.

The countries have previously worked on scientific projects in areas such as physical and biological sciences, clinical medicine, and astronomy.

Last year, the Australian government provided more than AU$17 million for joint projects with Brazilian research partners through the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Collaboration with Brazil is also supported under the National Innovation and Science Agenda's Global Innovation Strategy. The Australian government had pledged a total of AU$36 million over five years to improve international innovation and science collaboration.