Australia and India are strengthening their research collaboration as applications open today for the Australia-India Strategic Research Fund (AISRF).
Australian researchers will share in $4 million of funding through the AISRF Round 16. Grants from $200,000 to $1 million are available per project.
The AISRF, supported by the Albanese Government, is Australia’s largest bilateral science program. Since its establishment in 2006, it has facilitated over 370 collaborative activities between the two nations.
This round of funding will support joint research projects, workshops, fellowships, and institutional partnerships, further strengthening the scientific and technological ties between Australia and India.
To qualify for funding, projects must address priority areas and shared challenges for both countries. The focus areas for Round 16 include:
- Critical minerals processing technologies and methods
- Quantum computing and communications
- Remanufacturing and product end-of-use recovery, including electronic waste recycling
- Biomanufacturing for industrial and consumer products, including biochemicals, biofuels, and novel bio-based materials
- Biotechnology for improved agricultural productivity and climate resilience (including food security and renewable feedstocks)
- RNA vaccines and biotherapeutics (immunotherapy)
The AISRF is jointly managed by Australia’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) and the Indian Government’s Department of Science and Technology and Department of Biotechnology.
Australia and India have a long-standing research partnership, with 2025 marking the 5th anniversary of the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the 20th anniversary of the AISRF. These milestones highlight the enduring commitment of both nations to advancing science and innovation together.
Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic said, “When countries work together to tackle shared challenges, they grow closer. The AISRF has proven this time and again over nearly two decades.
The $4 million in funding available today will drive collaboration on some of the most pressing issues facing both Australia and India, from critical minerals and recycling to quantum technologies, modern vaccines, and biotechnology.
“As our largest bilateral science program, the AISRF has been a tremendous success, and I look forward to seeing it grow even stronger in the years to come.”
Applications for Round 16 will remain open until 16 March 2025.
For more information and to apply, visit business.gov.au/AISRFCRPR16
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