Up to $800,000 are available to support fundamental and innovative research that addresses emerging science and technology relevant to Australia’s intelligence and national security interests.
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What is the National Intelligence Discovery Grants (NIDG)?
The National Intelligence Discovery Grants (NIDG) provides funding for research that aligns with the priority research areas identified by the Australian Government and detailed within the updated Intelligence Challenges (2025) under the National Security Science and Technology Priorities.
The NIDG program, administered by the Australian Research Council (ARC) on behalf of the Office of National Intelligence (ONI), promotes innovation, strengthens Australia’s intelligence capabilities, and encourages open collaboration between the research community and the National Intelligence Community (NIC).
The program also values equality, diversity, and inclusion in the research workforce, consistent with the ARC’s Gender Equality strategy.
National Intelligence Discovery Grants level of support
- Minimum funding amount: $400,000 per project
- Maximum funding amount: $800,000 per project
- Total funding available: $8 million across the program
- Funding duration: Up to three years per project
- Co-contribution: Not required
National Intelligence Discovery Grants important dates
- Close date: 5 December 2025, 5:00 pm (ACT local time)
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
National Intelligence Discovery Grants objectives
The objectives of the NIDG program are to:
- Support excellent fundamental (discovery or blue-sky) research in areas identified in the Intelligence Challenges.
- Build Australia’s research capacity and capability by supporting researchers, fostering research trainees, and contributing to a greater body of open-source research.
- Enhance collaboration across the research, science, and technology communities supporting the NIC.
- Support systematic and coordinated engagement between the research and intelligence communities.
Projects and expenditure eligible for National Intelligence Discovery Grants support
Eligible projects must address one or more of the updated 2025 Intelligence Challenges developed under the National Security Science and Technology Priorities.
The focus areas have been revised and expanded to reflect current intelligence and national security needs. Projects must demonstrate innovation, discovery, and potential impact on Australia’s intelligence capabilities.
Ineligible activities include:
- Research already funded by another Commonwealth grant
- Consultancy or contracted work with little innovation or research risk
- General infrastructure or capital works
- Basic administrative expenses (e.g., rent, utilities, IT equipment)
Other National Intelligence Discovery Grants important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for National Intelligence Discovery Grants support
Only the following are eligible to apply:
- Australian universities, and
- Research institutions listed as Eligible Organisations in the NIDG Grant Guidelines.
Only successful Expression of Interest (EIID26) applicants will be invited to submit a Full Application (ID26).
Applications may only be submitted through the Research Office of an Eligible Organisation.
Participating organisations must be Australian, and all named individuals must be:
- Australian citizens,
- Australian permanent residents, or
- New Zealand Special Category Visa holders.
Each application must include at least one Chief Investigator (CI) or NIDG Fellow from the Administering Organisation.
Other organisations may be involved but must include a Partner Investigator (PI) representative.
National Intelligence Discovery Grants assessment criteria
Applications are assessed on a targeted or restricted competitive basis using the following weighted criteria:
- Project Quality and Benefit (60%) – originality, innovation, and contribution to national intelligence capability.
- Investigator Capability (25%) – expertise, track record, and research performance.
- Feasibility and Commitment (15%) – project design, resources, and overall deliverability.
How do I get the National Intelligence Discovery Grants?
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.
- Demonstrate a strong alignment with the fund’s objectives
- Provide complete information requirements.
Before applying, applicants should:
- Review the 2025 Intelligence Challenges and ensure alignment with one or more priority areas.
- Prepare a mature research plan ready for implementation, including methodology, personnel details, and budget estimates.
- Ensure all named participants meet eligibility and citizenship requirements.
- Review the NIDG Grant Guidelines, Instructions to Applicants, and sample forms on GrantConnect.
See the guidelines for full details of other requirements.
Information to prepare for the National Intelligence Discovery Grants application
Applications must:
- Be complete and self-contained (no supplementary materials unless requested).
- Include all required certifications.
- Follow all format and content instructions within RMS-ONI.
Applying for the National Intelligence Discovery Grants
Only shortlisted EOI applicants can proceed to a Full Application. Applications must be submitted through the ONI portal of the Research Management System (RMS-ONI) at rmsoni.researchgrants.gov.au.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
National Intelligence Discovery Grants resources
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