Defence Industry Development Grants Program
The Defence Industry Development Grants Program funds Australian SMEs to build advanced defence capabilities, technical skills, export readiness, and security through four targeted streams aligned with national priorities.
Funder: Australia Department of Defence
Due Dates: May 31, 2026 (Sovereign Industrial Priorities & Skilling) | June 30, 2026 (Security) | July 31, 2026 (Exports)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per project (stream-dependent); grants cover up to 50% of eligible costs; minimums and caps vary by stream.
Summary: Supports Australian SMEs and Defence Industry Associations to build sovereign defence capability, workforce skills, export competitiveness, and security posture through four targeted funding streams.
Key Information: Applications are assessed in batches by stream; review updated guidelines before submission.
Description
The Defence Industry Development Grants Program is a significant Australian government initiative aimed at strengthening the nation’s defence industrial base. It provides targeted support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and, for the Skilling stream, Defence Industry Associations, helping them acquire new capabilities, achieve international accreditations, develop technical and trade skills, and enhance security standards required for defence sector participation. The program is structured into four streams: Sovereign Industrial Priorities, Skilling, Exports, and Security, each addressing a specific strategic need identified in the Defence Industry Development Strategy. Projects must be completed by March 31, 2028.
