Defence is supporting original, independent research and public policy engagement through its annual Strategic Policy Grants Program (SPGP), which opens its 2025 round today.
The program - now in its sixth year - broadens public debate, strengthens Defence partnerships, and informs Defence's strategic policy development by funding independent projects focused on strategic issues relevant to Australia.
The SPGP has funded a range of successful policy papers, education courses, roundtable discussions, articles and dialogues.
First Assistant Secretary Strategic Policy, Dr Sheridan Kearnan, said the SPGP would award approximately AUD$3.5 million in total grant funding in the 2025 round.
"In an ever-changing strategic environment, new ideas and thinking are critical to ensuring Defence's own strategic direction is fit for purpose," Dr Kearnan said.
"The program aims to fund a diverse range of perspectives, from new and emerging voices as well as established Defence and national security experts.
"If you can offer well-aligned, high-value, and influential insights on Australia's future defence and security needs, we strongly encourage you to apply."
We recommend applicants address one of Defence's priority policy questions. However, applicants may also submit their own ideas that align with strategic policy priorities outlined in the National Defence Strategy.
For a complete list of the priority policy questions, and to apply, please visit https://www.defence.gov.au/programs-initiatives/strategic-policy-grants-program or GrantConnect.
