Frequently Asked Questions

The application process

1. How do I apply for a grant?

Defence has a number of grant programs which advertise grant opportunities throughout the year.

To find a current grant program, visit GrantConnect at www.grants.gov.au or visit Defence Grants Home.

For all advertised grant opportunities, the relevant application form must be completed in line with the relevant grant opportunity guidelines.

2. Can someone from the Department assist with preparing my application?

No. To maintain impartiality and the integrity of the application process, the Department cannot provide applicants with individual assistance in the preparation of a funding application.

3. Once I apply, what happens next?

Once Defence receives an application it will be assessed and a recommendation made to a decision maker. Once the decision is made, you will be advised whether your application was successful.

If your application was successful, Defence will negotiate a grant agreement with you. Payment will be made in accordance with the agreement and the grant activity will be acquitted against the agreement.

Please note, grant applications for a Defence grant administered by the Department of Industry Business Grants Hub, will be processed in accordance with the grant opportunity guidelines for those specific grant programs.

4. How will my application be assessed?

Your application will be reviewed for eligibility in accordance with the grant opportunity guidelines, including:

• Whether the proposed activity meets the definition of a grant under the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines; and
• Whether it is aligned with achieving one of the stated strategic outcomes of the Department highlighted in the Defence Grant home page.

5. Who will assess my application?

Unless specified within the grant opportunity, your application will be assessed by staff working in the Department of Defence or the Business Grants hub in the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.

6. What Legislative Authority is required for a Defence grant?

All grants must fall within the Commonwealth regulatory framework and be managed in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs).

The legislative authority for a grant may be in separate legislation or in a grant or program listed in Schedule 1AA or Schedule 1AB of the Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Regulations 1997 (FFSP Regulations).

7. How and when will I be notified of the outcome?

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application, whether successful or unsuccessful. Expected timing for notification of outcomes will be specified within the relevant grant opportunity.

Successful applicants will also be contacted to negotiate the terms of their Grant Agreement.

8. Do I need to keep a record of the funding spent?

Defence may seek further clarification from the applicant on funding spent. The applicant must be able to demonstrate they have achieved the outcomes stated in their original application. Adequate accounts and records, including amounts distributed to subcontractors, must be kept in accordance with the Australian accounting standards.

Documentation must be retained for a period of seven years, or otherwise stated, as the Commonwealth or a representative may conduct an audit or review relevant to the performance of the recipient’s obligations.

9. Who can I contact for more information about Defence grants?

Questions specific to existing grant agreements should be directed to the relevant Grant Program Manager. You will find contact information by following the link to the relevant program via the About Defence Grants page.

General questions about Defence grants can be emailed to grants.dci@defence.gov.au.

Further information on grants and the Commonwealth Grants Policy Framework is available on the Department of Finance – Commonwealth grants.