Monash University and national energy authority form pioneering partnership

16 May 2025

Monash University has forged a landmark alliance with the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) in a move expected to help bridge the gap between energy policy and academic research.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed by Monash University and AEMC, establishes a closer relationship between the national energy authority and researchers at the forefront of Australia’s energy transition.

It is AEMC’s first formal arrangement with a university - a milestone that reflects the growing need for independent research-based expertise to inform energy policy decisions.

Monash University's landmark alliance with the AEMC is expected to
help bridge the gap between energy policy and academic research.

The MoU creates a structured pathway for exchanging knowledge and fostering ongoing
dialogue between the two organisations - providing a potential model for future connections between AEMC and other institutions.

Monash Energy Institute Director Shreejan Pandey said the collaboration would strengthen the link between research and policymaking.

“Australia’s world-class research expertise is a powerful asset in addressing the complex social, technical, and market design challenges of the energy transition,” Mr Pandey said.

“This partnership is a critical step in bridging academia, industry, and policymakers to unlock research-driven insights to shape our energy future.”

The initiative will give AEMC access to Monash’s deep expertise across energy-related fields while providing scholars with direct insight into real-world policy challenges and decision-making.

As the national body for developing the rules that guide Australia’s electricity and gas markets, AEMC hopes to bring Monash-led research insights and ideas into policy conversations.

The collaboration is expected to spark research projects, shared knowledge transfer events, and new opportunities for Monash students and researchers to engage in national energy policy development.

AEMC Chair Anna Collyer said the alliance would enhance the Commission’s research engagement.

“By bringing together policy expertise and academic thinking, we aim to deepen our understanding of the complex challenges facing Australia's energy system,” Ms Collyer said.

“As the rule-maker for Australian energy markets, we value these academic partnerships for the fresh perspectives they bring while maintaining our independent statutory role."

Monash Business School Deputy Dean Research, Professor Russell Smyth, said the MoU highlights the university’s commitment to real-world impact.

“This partnership exemplifies Monash Business School’s commitment to research with real-world impact,” Professor Smyth said. “Collaborating with the AEMC allows us to contribute meaningfully to the discourse shaping the future of Australia’s energy market.”