# List of research institutes in Australia
Tamtam tracks 70 research institutes headquartered in Australia. This list ranks the 50 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by University of Melbourne, Monash University and University of Sydney. Their median headcount is 3,732. Half of them were founded in 1967 or later. The most common headquarters are Melbourne (9), Adelaide (4) and Brisbane (4).
This selection of Australian research institutes largely comprises universities, reflecting the significant role higher education plays in the country's research landscape. These institutions, such as the University of Melbourne and Monash University, provide education and conduct research across various disciplines, addressing global challenges. UNSW attracts diverse international students, while RMIT University specializes in technology, design, and applied research with strong industry engagement. The University of Sydney focuses on research excellence and inclusive education, and The University of Queensland is committed to knowledge leadership and impactful research.
A notable pattern among these institutions is their widespread geographical distribution across Australia's major cities. While several are based in Melbourne and Sydney, others are found in Brisbane, Perth, and Canberra, indicating a decentralized approach to research and higher education infrastructure across the continent.
π¦πΊ Australia Β· 50 companies Β· Updated Nov 12, 2026
| # | Company | Industry | Headquarters | Employees | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [University of Melbourne](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-melbourne) (unimelb.edu.au)
Provides high-quality education and research addressing global social, economic, and environmental challenges with strong community connections. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 21,904 | 1853 |
| 2 | [Monash University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/monash-university) (monash.edu)
Leading research-intensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research courses with a global presence and significant impact beyond academia | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Victoria | 21,673 | |
| 3 | [University of Sydney](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-sydney) (sydney.edu.au)
Top Australian university focusing on research excellence and inclusive education, supporting diverse students and advancing knowledge globally. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ The University of Sydney | 20,284 | |
| 4 | [UNSW](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/unsw) (unsw.edu.au)
Offers over 300 undergraduate and 600 postgraduate programs, attracting diverse international students, part of leading research university networks. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Sydney | 17,791 | 1949 |
| 5 | [The University of Queensland](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-university-of-queensland) (alumni.uq.edu.au)
A globally renowned university with a commitment to knowledge leadership, quality teaching, and impactful research to drive positive change in society | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Brisbane | 16,935 | 1909 |
| 6 | [RMIT University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/rmit-university) (rmit.edu.au)
Global university specializing in technology, design, enterprise, professional education, applied research, and strong industry and community engagement. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 14,580 | 1887 |
| 7 | [University of Technology Sydney](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-technology-sydney) (uts.edu.au)
This dynamic and cosmopolitan university prepares graduates for a borderless workplace through its diverse and rich learning environment, recognized for excellence in teaching. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Ultimo | 10,093 | 1988 |
| 8 | [QUT (Queensland University of Technology)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/qut-queensland-university-of-technology) (qut.edu.au)
University offering applied courses and research with a global outlook, serving 50,000 students and strong graduate employment rates. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Brisbane | 9,879 | 1989 |
| 9 | [Curtin University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/curtin-university) (curtin.edu.au)
An internationally focused university with campuses in multiple countries, connecting students to industries and organizations globally, emphasizing real-world issues and job readiness | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Bentley | 9,451 | |
| 10 | [The University of Western Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-university-of-western-australia) (uwa.edu.au)
An Australian research university known for excellence, innovation, and enterprise, located on a picturesque campus in Perth along the Swan River | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Perth | 8,751 | 1911 |
| 11 | [Macquarie University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/macquarie-university) (mq.edu.au)
A forward-thinking university dedicated to solving real-world problems through collaboration with students, academics, industry, and society | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Sydney | 8,022 | |
| 12 | [The Australian National University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-australian-national-university) (anu.edu.au)
Leading national institution for research and education excellence featuring world-class staff and facilities on a vast parkland campus for global learning. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Canberra | 7,653 | 1946 |
| 13 | [La Trobe University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/la-trobe-university) (latrobe.edu.au)
Academic community advancing health, science, and technology through research, education, and real-world impact in hospitals and laboratories. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 7,270 | 1967 |
| 14 | [Western Sydney University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/western-sydney-university) (westernsydney.edu.au)
Australian educational institution in Western Sydney, offering academic excellence, research-led programs, and global focus to make a positive impact in communities | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Penrith | 6,951 | 1989 |
| 15 | [University of Newcastle](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-newcastle) (newcastle.edu.au)
University offering flexible degrees, supporting diverse students, partnering with industry, and addressing global challenges through research and community engagement. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Newcastle | 6,843 | |
| 16 | [CSIRO](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/csiro) (csiro.au)
This company offers opportunities to work on global science and engineering projects, provides mentoring and education support, and promotes work-life balance | Research Services | π¦πΊ Acton | 6,817 | |
| 17 | [Swinburne University of Technology](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/swinburne-university-of-technology) (swinburne.edu.au)
Higher education provider offering diverse undergraduate, postgraduate, vocational courses, research, and international campuses focused on science, technology, and innovation. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 6,766 | 1908 |
| 18 | [University of Adelaide](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-adelaide) (adelaide.edu.au)
A world-class research and higher education institution in a top liveable city, known for academic excellence and a diverse, high-achieving community | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Adelaide | 6,561 | 1874 |
| 19 | [Flinders University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/flinders-university) (flinders.edu.au)
Leading Australian university focused on excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement with campuses across multiple regions. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Adelaide | 5,835 | 1966 |
| 20 | [Flinders Institute for Nanoscale Science & Technology](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/flinders-institute-for-nanoscale-science-and-technology) (flinders.edu.au)
Utilizing cutting-edge research, we offer innovative solutions to address Australia's energy, health, security, and environmental challenges | Research Services | π¦πΊ Adelaide | 5,785 | 2010 |
| 21 | [University of Wollongong](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-wollongong) (uow.edu.au)
A modern and innovative institution focused on academic excellence, research, and teaching, with a global presence and commitment to making a tangible difference | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Wollongong | 5,654 | 1975 |
| 22 | [Victoria University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/victoria-university) (vu.edu.au)
A top-ranked university offering inclusive education through innovative VU Block Model, industry connections, research excellence, and global sports science leadership | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 5,325 | 1916 |
| 23 | [CQUniversity](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/cquniversity) (cqu.edu.au)
A leading Australian university offering a wide range of education and training options, with a focus on practical, industry-aligned courses and strong graduate outcomes | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Norman Gardens | 3,803 | 1967 |
| 24 | [Murdoch University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/murdoch-university) (murdoch.edu.au)
A global university in Western Australia offering inclusive education, research, and innovation to students and staff from around the world | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Perth | 3,750 | |
| 25 | [Mater](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/mater) (mater.org.au)
A longstanding organization dedicated to improving community health by combining expertise in healthcare, education, and research, with a focus on empowering individuals for better well-being | Hospitals and Health Care | π¦πΊ Brisbane | 3,732 | 1906 |
| 26 | [University of the Sunshine Coast](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-the-sunshine-coast) (usc.edu.au)
A forward-thinking university empowering individuals to create change in their communities through education, research, and fostering opportunities for all students | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Sippy Downs | 3,135 | |
| 27 | [Charles Darwin University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/charles-darwin-university) (cdu.edu.au)
Higher education provider offering flexible, online learning with strong ties to First Nations communities and research aligned with sustainability goals. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Casuarina | 2,390 | 2003 |
| 28 | [University of New England (AU)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-new-england-au) (une.edu.au)
An Australian public university offering flexible study options, on-campus experience, innovative online teaching, and research excellence, actively engaged in partnerships and communities | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Armidale | 2,349 | 1954 |
| 29 | [Afyon Kocatepe University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/afyon-kocatepe-university) (edu.tr)
Turkish public higher education institution, offering diverse academic programs through faculties, institutes, schools, and research centers. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ | 1,765 | 1992 |
| 30 | [Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/murdoch-children-s-research-institute-mcri) (mcri.edu.au)
Leading child health research institute in Australia, dedicated to preventing and treating childhood conditions through research, clinical care, and genetic testing | Research Services | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 1,490 | 1989 |
| 31 | [ANSTO](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ansto) (ansto.gov.au)
A large public research organization in Australia, specializing in nuclear science and technology, hosting international collaborations and providing access to landmark infrastructure | Research Services | π¦πΊ Lucas Heights | 1,439 | |
| 32 | [Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/defence-science-and-technology-group-dstg) (dst.defence.gov.au)
A national agency applying science and technology to protect Australia, providing advice, innovative solutions, and technical support for defense and national security | Defense and Space Manufacturing | π¦πΊ Adelaide | 1,237 | 1974 |
| 33 | [WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/wehi-walter-and-eliza-hall-institute-of-medical-research) (wehi.edu.au)
Bringing together global researchers to make life-changing discoveries in cancer, infectious diseases, developmental disorders, and healthy ageing through long-term collaboration | Research Services | π¦πΊ Parkville | 1,099 | 1915 |
| 34 | [Cerebral Palsy Alliance](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/cerebral-palsy-alliance) (cerebralpalsy.org.au)
Leader in cerebral palsy research, advocacy, and assistive technology innovation, striving for greater inclusion and advocating for change globally | Non-profit Organizations | π¦πΊ Allambie Heights | 1,098 | 1945 |
| 35 | [The Kids Research Institute Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-kids-research-institute-australia) (thekids.org.au)
Researching, discovering, and applying knowledge to improve the health, happiness, and development of children and young people through preventative treatment and cures. | Research Services | π¦πΊ Nedlands | 991 | 1989 |
| 36 | [UNSW Business School](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/unsw-business-school) (unsw.edu.au)
A leading business school in the Asia-Pacific region, equipping students for long-term success through career-focused education and industry engagement | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Kensington | 825 | 2007 |
| 37 | [QIMR Berghofer](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/qimr-berghofer) (qimrb.edu.au)
Leading translational research institute focused on cancer, infectious diseases, mental health, and chronic disorders Collaborating with clinicians to improve health through diagnostics and treatments | Research Services | π¦πΊ Brisbane | 745 | |
| 38 | [Australian Institute of Marine Science](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/australian-institute-of-marine-science) (aims.gov.au)
Australia's leading marine research agency, specializing in biodiversity, climate change impacts, water quality, and ecosystem health for sustainable tropical marine resource management | Research Services | π¦πΊ Townsville | 741 | 1972 |
| 39 | [Geoscience Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/geoscience-australia) (ga.gov.au)
Provide scientific expertise and technology to understand Australia's geology and geography, supporting national opportunities and challenges with diverse partnerships. | Environmental Services | π¦πΊ Canberra | 727 | 2001 |
| 40 | [UNSW Canberra](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/unsw-canberra) (unsw.edu.au)
An academic institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs in Arts, Business, Engineering, Science, and Technology, as well as research opportunities | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Canberra | 692 | 1981 |
| 41 | [Garvan Institute of Medical Research](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/garvan-institute-of-medical-research) (garvan.org.au)
Pioneering medical research institute focused on understanding genes and molecular processes to develop treatments and cures for widespread diseases | Research Services | π¦πΊ Darlinghurst | 684 | 1963 |
| 42 | [The George Institute for Global Health](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-george-institute-for-global-health) (georgeinstitute.org)
A medical research institute focused on finding better treatments, transforming primary care, and improving health in disadvantaged communities worldwide | Research Services | π¦πΊ Sydney | 683 | 1999 |
| 43 | [Burnet Institute](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/burnet-institute) (burnet.edu.au)
An Australian medical research institute focused on life-changing research and health programs in the Indo-Pacific region and Africa, striving for a better, fairer, healthier world | Biotechnology Research | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 658 | 1986 |
| 44 | [Orygen](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/orygen) (orygen.org.au)
Focus on early intervention, research, education, and policy advocacy to improve mental health outcomes for young people and families. | Mental Health Care | π¦πΊ Parkville | 608 | |
| 45 | [TOBB Ekonomi ve Teknoloji Γniversitesi](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/tobb-ekonomi-ve-teknoloji-universitesi) (edu.tr)
a private foundation university established in Ankara, notable for its cooperative education program providing students with a year of work experience. | Higher Education | π¦πΊ Ankara | 593 | 2003 |
| 46 | [Australian Council for Educational Research](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/australian-council-for-educational-research) (acer.org)
A leading educational research center that creates and promotes research-based knowledge to improve learning for learners, professionals, and institutions worldwide | Research Services | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 543 | 1930 |
| 47 | [NSW DPI](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/nsw-dpi) (gov.au)
State-funded R,D & E organization in New South Wales focusing on agriculture, minerals, fisheries, and forestry research, development, and extension | Research Services | π¦πΊ | 531 | |
| 48 | [The Florey](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/the-florey) (florey.edu.au)
Leading brain research institute in the southern hemisphere, tackling major brain and mind challenges through excellent research, partnerships, and empowering workplace | Research Services | π¦πΊ Parkville | 511 | 1963 |
| 49 | [Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/baker-heart-and-diabetes-institute) (baker.edu.au)
Health and medical research institute in Australia focusing on cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, conducting community studies and translating discoveries into clinical practice | Biotechnology Research | π¦πΊ Melbourne | 470 | 1926 |
| 50 | [Menzies School of Health Research](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/menzies-school-of-health-research) (menzies.edu.au)
An independent institute specializing in Indigenous and tropical health research, collaborating with partners to improve health and wellbeing locally and globally | Research Services | π¦πΊ Darwin | 462 | 1985 |
## How this list is built
Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 12, 2026.
## More company lists in Australia
- [The largest companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/largest-companies-australia) (5,556)
- [Multinational companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/multinational-companies-australia) (1,184)
- [Retail chains in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-chains-australia) (577)
- [Financial services firms in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-firms-australia) (483)
- [Critical infrastructure operators in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/critical-infrastructure-operators-australia) (450)
- [Education providers in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/education-companies-australia) (402)
- [Healthcare providers in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/healthcare-providers-australia) (397)
- [Professional services firms in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/professional-services-firms-australia) (377)
- [Financial Services companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-companies-australia) (373)
- [Government Administration companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/government-administration-companies-australia) (351)
- [Public sector organisations in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/public-sector-organisations-australia) (326)
- [Manufacturers in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/manufacturers-australia) (320)
- [Companies with a mobile app in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/companies-with-mobile-app-australia) (305)
- [Publicly traded companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/publicly-traded-companies-australia) (299)
- [Hospitals and Health Care companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hospitals-and-health-care-companies-australia) (297)
- [Corporate groups and holding companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/holding-companies-australia) (280)
- [E-commerce companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/ecommerce-companies-australia) (247)
- [Retail companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-companies-australia) (243)
- [Companies with in-house R&D in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-australia) (235)
- [IT Services and IT Consulting companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-and-it-consulting-companies-australia) (215)
- [Consulting firms in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/consulting-firms-australia) (210)
- [Non-profit Organizations companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/non-profit-organizations-companies-australia) (190)
- [Hotel and hospitality groups in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hospitality-groups-australia) (188)
- [Construction companies in Australia](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/construction-companies-australia) (186)
## The same list elsewhere
- [Research institutes in the world](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-in-the-world) (5,686)
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Source: https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-australia