What are RSPs?

RSPs are scientific or technical service providers that you can engage to conduct R&D activities on your behalf.

All RSPs must be registered with the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (the department) before they can provide R&D services under the R&DTI. To be registered, RSPs must demonstrate that they have the capability and capacity to provide R&D services to R&DTI registrants in specific fields of research.

Why use RSPs?

RSPs can help you plan and conduct your R&D activities by providing expertise and resources in any field of research listed in the Australian and New Zealand Standard Research Classification. They may assist you to undertake your R&D more quickly and can enhance your R&D outcomes.

RSPs can be engaged by companies of all sizes but can be particularly useful for smaller companies that do not have the personnel or facilities to conduct R&D themselves.

If you use an RSP to conduct your activities, you are not required to meet the $20,000 R&D expenditure threshold to apply for the R&DTI. This means RSPs can allow you to claim the R&D tax offset even for smaller amounts of R&D expenditure.

It is important to remember that using an RSP does not guarantee that your R&D activities will be eligible under the R&DTI. You still need to self-assess your eligibility even if you use an RSP.

How to work with RSPs

Search the department’s RSP register to find RSPs in the appropriate field for your R&D activities.

Once you find an RSP to work with, you can follow the steps for planning R&D and registering for the R&DTI.