Adelaide University and UNSW have unveiled Defence Trailblazer’s new AUD12 million program. The Accelerating Sovereign Industrial Capabilities (ASIC) funding program, announced on May 28, 2024, will enable businesses to fast-track the translation of defence research and development (R&D) activities to deliver capabilities aligned to the new Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities (SDIPs).
“The Defence Industry Development Strategy states that developing the sovereign defence industrial base Australia needs to meet our strategic circumstances, which requires targeted industrial development in areas of strategic priority,” said Defence Trailblazer Executive Director Dr Sanjay Mazumdar. “The ASIC program aims to enable faster commercialisation of larger-scale defence R&D activities and collaborations aligned with the new strategic priority capabilities that Defence requires.”
Project proposals will be sought by industry (i.e. organisations with an ABN/ACN) based in Australia and involving at least one Defence Trailblazer research university (University of Adelaide and/or UNSW). New industry partners are encouraged, but existing partners can also apply. Collaborative projects involving one or more industry partners are highly encouraged.
Up to AU12 million in funding will be available. Successful applicants will be required to provide matching cash co-contributions. Preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate the ability to build scale in R&D, with a stronger weighting given to small and medium enterprise-led and multi-party project proposals. Defence Trailblazer can assist in finding appropriate capabilities at universities and existing industry partners.
Access to Defence Trailblazer’s workforce skilling and attraction initiatives, including student projects and placements, proto-lab network (facilities and equipment), and the staff mobility program, is also available and can be included in project proposals.
The Defence Trailblazer is a collaborative partnership between the University of Adelaide and UNSW, supported by the Australian Government’s Department of Education. In collaboration with over 50 industry partners, academia and government, the Defence Trailblazer aims to strengthen Australia’s defence capabilities by developing cutting-edge technologies and solutions while simultaneously equipping the next generation of innovators with specialised knowledge and skills to meet the current and future needs of Defence.
Applications for the ASIC program are now open, with a closing date of July 10, 2024.
