Discovery Projects for funding commencing in 2027 will be run in a two-stage application process, commencing with an Expression of Interest (EOI). Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full application.
Discovery Projects may be undertaken by individual researchers or research teams to:
- expand knowledge base and research capacity in Australia, and
- economic, commercial, environmental, social and/or cultural benefits for Australia.
Discovery Projects are for funding between $30,000 and $500,000 each year for up to 5 consecutive years. Project funding may be used for:
- personnel, for example, research associates or assistants and technicians and stipends for higher degree by research students
- teaching relief
- access to research and infrastructure facilities and technical workshop services
- essential field research
- expert third party services
- equipment and consumables
- publication and dissemination of outputs and outreach
- specialised computer equipment and software
- travel costs essential to the project
- web hosting and development
- workshops, focus groups and conferences, and
- essential support costs for researchers who are carers or who personally require care or assistance.
Key Dates
EOI Close: 12 December 2025
EOI Outcomes Announced: 25 February to 27 February 2026
Full Application Open: 2 March 2026
Full Application Close: 22 April 2026
Rejoinders: 23 June to 6 July 2026
Anticipated announcement: 19 October to 30 October 2026