Grants up to $3 million to support older people to maintain their health and quality of life, live independently for longer and access quality care.
On this page you will find
What is the Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant?
The MRFF – 2025 Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Grant Opportunity is a competitive funding initiative administered by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) on behalf of the Department of Health and Aged Care. This grant aims to support research that will improve the quality of life for Australians as they age by funding innovative projects in two key research streams. The opportunity focuses on both advancing preventive measures among vulnerable populations and enhancing the implementation of high-quality care for older Australians.
Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant level of support
Grants:
- Minimum Amount: $0
- Maximum Amount: $5,000,000
- Total Funding Available: $24,300,000
Co-contribution: This grant does not require a co-contribution from the applicant.
Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant important dates
- Minimum Data Due: 5:00pm ACT Local Time on 23 July 2025
- Full Application Closing: 5:00pm ACT Local Time on 20 August 2025
- Questions Deadline: 1:00pm ACT Local Time on 13 August 2025
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant objectives
The overarching aim is to improve the health and wellbeing of older Australians through targeted research initiatives. Specifically, the grant supports:
Stream 1: Implementation research to address inequalities in the uptake of preventive activities among:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Rural, regional, and remote populations
- Culturally and linguistically diverse communities
Outcome: Extend healthy, active years among vulnerable groups.
Stream 2: Implementation research to understand barriers and enablers to adopting best practice care for older Australians across various care settings and population groups.
Outcome: Improve the uptake of high-quality, evidence-based care.
Projects eligible for Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant support
Eligible projects must clearly address one of the two research streams and demonstrate a pathway to meaningful health improvements for older Australians. Applicants should propose research that:
- Focuses on either implementing preventive interventions (Stream 1) or enhancing the delivery of best practice care (Stream 2).
- Aligns with the strategic objectives outlined in the Dementia, Ageing and Aged Care Mission.
Ineligible Expenditure:
It is important to note that grant funds cannot be used for:
- Indirect costs of research (e.g. organisation-wide overheads, administrative expenses, or general facility maintenance).
- Retrospective costs or activities undertaken outside Australia (except as expressly allowed under the guidelines).
- Expenditure that does not directly address the approved research objectives.
See the guidelines for full details of projects eligible for DAACG support.
Other Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant support
Only MRFF Eligible Organisations – those approved by the NHMRC – are permitted to submit applications. A full list of approved organisations is available on the NHMRC website. Joint applications are encouraged; however, a lead organisation must be identified and certified for eligibility.
Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant assessment criteria
Applications are rigorously evaluated against several key criteria:
- Project Impact (40%): How the research will advance health outcomes, influence policy, and contribute to improvements in the quality of life for older Australians.
- Project Methodology (30%): The scientific quality, originality, feasibility, and clarity of the proposed research plan.
- Capacity, Capability and Resources (30%): The research team’s expertise, infrastructure, and ability to deliver the project successfully.
- Overall Value and Risk (Non-weighted): An assessment of the budget’s justification, risk management, and value with relevant money.
Additional considerations include consumer involvement and the incorporation of best practice regarding sex, gender, and diversity.
How do I get the Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant?
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant application
Before you begin your application, gather the following:
- Up-to-date profiles for all Chief Investigators and research team members.
- A comprehensive Grant Proposal including:
- Project Impact (max 3 pages)
- Project Methodology (max 5 pages)
- Milestones and Performance Indicators (max 2 pages)
- Capacity, Capability and Resources details (as per stream-specific guidelines)
- Overall Value and Risk section (including a Risk Management Plan and Contributions table)
- Consumer Involvement Statement (max 2 pages)
- Measures of Success Statement (max 1 page)
- References (max 1 page)
- Additional documents such as Letters of Support, Declarations of Applicant Interests, and any required financial or in-kind contribution statements.
Applying for the Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant
All applications must be submitted electronically via the NHMRC’s Sapphire system.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Dementia, Ageing, and Aged Care Grant resources
Is Your Business Eligible for This Government Grant?
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Assist you to craft persuasive applications that not only highlight your strengths but also align seamlessly with funders’ objectives. - Grant Application Review
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