The Defence Strategic Policy Grants Program (SPGP) funds independent work to deepen public debate on strategic issues relevant to Australia and inform the development of Australia’s defence policy and strategy.

The objective of the program is to support the achievement of Defence's mission and purpose by:

• deepening public debate about Australia's strategic and defence policy choices;
• informing the development of Australia's defence policy and strategy;
• strengthening Defence's international and domestic partnerships; and
• broadening participation in Australia's strategic and defence policy debate.

The intended outcomes of the program are:

• the publication of original, well-informed and policy-relevant research;
• engagements between Defence and leading non-government experts;
• events and activities involving Defence's international and domestic counterparts; and
• fostering new and emerging talent in Australia's strategic and defence policy debate.

Eligibility:

You are eligible to apply if you:

• Hold a business registration number in your country. In Australia, this is the Australian Business Number (ABN).
• Submit a completed application form (In addition, project proposals should not be semi-complete and asking for feedback from Defence on scope. Proposals must be fully scoped and considered.)
• (If applicant is located outside of Australia) Apply as a consortium application with an Australian organisation or individual. (Refer to 7.2 Joint (consortia) applications of the 2026 SPGP Guidelines).

• Email: sp.grants@defence.gov.au