Up to $2 million to address the defence sector’s future workforce needs, encouraging young Australians to consider STEM careers that support Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Schools Pathways Program?
The Schools Pathways Program (SPP) aims to foster student engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) by providing meaningful connections between secondary school students and the defence industry. This initiative is designed to address the future workforce needs of the defence sector, encouraging young Australians to consider STEM careers that support Australia’s sovereign defence capabilities.
Through this program, students gain access to mentoring, career experiences, and opportunities that align with the needs of the defence industry, contributing to Australia’s long-term strategic interests.
SPP level of support
- Minimum Funding: $150,000
- Maximum Funding: $2,000,000
- Grant Coverage: Up to 100% of eligible project expenditure.
Co-contribution Requirement: The program covers up to 100% of eligible project costs, meaning no co-contribution is required from applicants. However, you are responsible for covering any ineligible or additional project costs not funded by the grant.
SPP important dates
- This program is closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
SPP objectives
The main objectives of the Schools Pathways Program are:
- To inform students, parents, and educators about career pathways in the defence industry.
- To increase student engagement in STEM subjects and activities relevant to defence careers.
- To address critical skills gaps by expanding the pool of STEM-skilled workers who could support Australia’s defence industry.
Projects and expenditure eligible for SPP support
Eligible projects must aim to raise awareness of defence industry career pathways through activities such as:
- STEM enrichment programs incorporating defence industry mentoring, design challenges, and workshops.
- Defence industry awareness activities like career fairs, outreach programs, site visits, and work experience.
- Professional development for teachers to increase awareness of defence career opportunities and enhance STEM education delivery.
The following expenditures are not eligible for support under this grant:
- Capital expenditure for office furniture, motor vehicles, or other non-project-specific equipment.
- Costs related to preparing the grant application or associated documentation.
- Ongoing operational costs such as rent, water rates, legal fees, or insurance.
- Software subscriptions or corporate resource costs not directly related to the project.
- Overseas travel or any activities already funded by another Commonwealth, state, or local government grant.
See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for SPP support.
Other SPP important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for SPP support
To be eligible for this grant, your organisation must:
- Have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN).
- Be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST).
- Be one of the following entities:
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- An entity incorporated in Australia.
- An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Corporation.
- An incorporated not-for-profit organisation or registered charity.
- An incorporated trustee on behalf of a trust.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
SPP assessment criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
- Project Alignment: How well the project supports the objectives of the grant and delivers outcomes aligned with the defence industry.
- Support for Defence Hubs: The extent to which the project targets critical defence industry hubs and addresses workforce needs.
- Capability and Resources: The organisation’s capacity, resources, and staff qualifications to successfully deliver the project.
- Project Impact: The expected impact on students’ interest in STEM and defence careers, particularly in addressing future workforce needs.
See the guidelines for full details of the assessment criteria.
How do I get the SPP?
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.
See the guidelines for full details of other requirements.
Information to prepare for the SPP application
You must provide the following documents with your application:
- a project plan (up to 10 pages)
- your risk management strategy (up to 10 pages)
- a project budget using the template available on business.gov.au
- evidence of support from the board, CEO or equivalent (template provided on business.gov.au and GrantConnect). Where the CEO or equivalent submits the application, we will accept this as evidence of support
- trust deed (where applicable).
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the SPP
Applications must be submitted via the official portal on business.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.
SPP resources
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