Defence Strategic Policy Research Program
The Defence Strategic Policy Research Program funds research to inform Australia’s defence and national security policy, supporting sector capacity and evidence-based analysis.
Funder: Australia Department of Defence
Due Dates: September 23, 2026: Closing date
Funding Amounts: Up to $58.3 million total over five years (2027–28 to 2031–32); no set maximum per grant, but cannot exceed available funds.
Summary: Operating funding to support Australian strategic policy research aligned with national defence and security priorities.
Key Information: Project activities must be completed by June 30, 2032; only incorporated Australian organisations are eligible.
Description
This program provides substantial operating funding to support the Australian strategic policy sector, enabling high-quality research, public debate, and engagement to inform and shape Australia’s defence and national security policy. The initiative responds to the 2024 Varghese Review and aims to strengthen the sector’s capacity, broaden participation (including gender-diverse and First Nations-led organisations), and enhance professional development for Defence personnel. Supported projects must align with annual national security policy research priorities published by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and directly assist the Australian Defence Force or other defence objectives.
