Medium-sized enterprises play an important role in the economy, diffusing technology downstream and connecting large and small firms. However, they are often overlooked. This report seeks to clarify the issues facing the 'missing middle', explore opportunities and shape solutions. It proposes identifying MSEs as a distinct cohort in policy and industry strategy.

This report makes four strategic recommendations and also provides examples of government and industry led initiatives that might be considered to stimulate increased investment in innovation to boost business productivity, increase business revenue and deliver more jobs.

This report provides a quantitative baseline for Australian business investment in innovation based on available data. It analyses trends, drivers and opportunities by sector and firm size. It also asks strategic questions of policymakers to accelerate investment.

This report provides qualitative analysis and findings from workshops across the country. The workshops used human-centred design to understand the barriers and drivers to Australian businesses innovation investment.

This strategy document aims to contribute to the wellbeing and prosperity of all Australians by strengthening Australia's innovation performance to become a leading innovation nation.