The objectives of this grant are to fund applied research, or research translation, projects and/or interventions to strengthen the disability support sectors' workforce.

A total funding amount of $1.4 million is available for Round 2 of the Applied Research Grants through the TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support. The objectives of this grant are to fund applied research, or research translation, projects and/or interventions which contribute to:

• Strengthening the disability support sectors' workforce to deliver high-quality, person-centred services which uphold the rights of people with a disability to live dignified lives of autonomy, inclusion, and independence;
• Strengthening the safety of workplaces for disability support service workers, particularly in relation to psychosocial wellbeing, and physical safety when navigating complex and/or high needs environments;
• Uplift wider understandings of the value of disability support service work, the skills required for the sector, and the diversity of career opportunities and pathways within the sector; and
• Promote the co-design and co-delivery of research with people who have lived experience.

Projects applying for funding under the round for research translation for the disability support services workforce should contribute to an evidence-base for:

• Informing excellence in education and training to enrich students' learning experiences, which are culturally appropriate and safe;
• Ensuring the needs of regional, rural, and remote communities and learners are met through innovative training practices and modes of delivery; and
• Supporting industry needs in building local support workforces through developing high level pathways interventions for growth and retention.

To be eligible to receive funding:

• Applications must be completed and have been received within the nominated open and closing dates;
• Applicant/s affiliated organisation must have a registered Australian Business Number (ABN);
• Applicant/s affiliated organisation must be an Australian owned entity with the capacity to enter into a legally binding agreement;
• Applicant/s affiliated organisation must have an account with an Australian financial institution; 
• TAFE institutions are eligible to apply as a lead organisation, provided they partner with an industry, university, and/or community organisation, and the proposed research project falls outside the scope of its routine operational activities; and
• Universities, industry, and/or community organisations are eligible to apply as a lead organisation, provided they partner with TAFE Queensland and/ or another TAFE institution, and the proposed research project falls outside of the scope of routine operational activities. 

• Email: HealthCareSupportTCE@tafeqld.edu.au