Defence Tech Grant Applications Now Open

Defence technology projects that strengthen critical supply chains in conflicts are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to $200,000.

Applications are now open for Round 8 of the Defence Science Centre's Collaborative Research Grant (CRG) program which is working under the theme: Logistics Under Conflict.

The theme recognises the increasingly important role logistics systems play in conflicts. In times of conflict, supply, movement, infrastructure, and health support are critical. But distance, environmental conditions, or enemy attack are all major vulnerabilities to logistics systems.

Projects seeking funding must align with one or more of the grant program's focus areas that strengthen decision advantage, disrupted health support, critical infrastructure resilience, supply sovereignty, and demand management during disruption.

Co-funded by the Cook Labor Government and the Defence Science and Technology Group, the CRG program supports collaborative research addressing Defence Innovation, Science and Technology (IS&T) priorities while strengthening Western Australia's defence research and innovation and industry capabilities.

Up to $200,000 is available for eligible collaborations involving at least one university and one industry partner.

Since its launch in 2020, the CRG program has invested more than $5.8 million in 41 collaborative defence research projects, helping to accelerate innovation, strengthen partnerships between research institutions, industry, and Defence, and build capability within WA's defence ecosystem.

Applications close on 25 September 2026. Successful projects are expected to be announced in January 2027 following a formal assessment and co-design process with Defence stakeholders to ensure projects align with real-world capability needs.

As stated by Premier and Defence Industries Minister Roger Cook:

"The Collaborative Research Grant program brings together WA researchers, industry, and Defence to tackle complex challenges through innovation - a capability that is essential to Australia's future defence readiness.

"This year's focus on Logistics Under Conflict reflects the growing importance of resilient supply chains and logistics networks in contested environments.

"The 2026 Round 8 program will give organisations the opportunity to develop practical solutions that strengthen defence capability while building local expertise and partnerships across WA's defence ecosystem.

"My government is committed to diversifying the economy and creating quality jobs, and supporting these grants is one of the ways we are driving that growth."