EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Projects
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Projects (“Varied Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Discovery Projects (“Original Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines”) on 29 July 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Discovery Projects funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 29 July 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 7 (Assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Correct the clause numbering error in clause 5.2, and subsequent numbering
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy, from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 8.4 regarding the discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 8.5 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024 replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Projects will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Discovery Grants program: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The consultation for the original 2024 Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines was undertaken to support streamlining and improve the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of the guidelines. It aimed to reduce administrative burden, ensure legislative compliance, and align with broader policy expectations. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, Indigenous representatives, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through surveys, workshops, webinars, and direct communications, and informed updates to eligibility criteria, assessment processes, and post-award requirements as part of a broader reform effort.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector, including the introduction of a two-stage Expression of Interest stage, followed by a full application.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Discovery Projects Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Projects
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Discovery Projects funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Fellowships
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Fellowships (“Varied Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Discovery Fellowships (“Original Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines”) on 29 July 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Discovery Fellowships funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia. In particular, these Grant Guidelines relate to the Australian Laureates Fellowships scheme, the Future Fellowships scheme and the Discovery Early Career Research Awards scheme.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Discovery Fellowship Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 29 July 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Discovery Fellowship Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 7 (Assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Correct the cross-reference error in clause 4.13.
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 7.3 regarding the discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 7.4 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Removal of caps of Fellowship funded by removal of A2.1, B2.1, C2.1.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024, replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Fellowships will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Discovery Fellowship programs: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines (2024 edition) underwent minimal changes to make them compliant with the amended ARC Act. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, Indigenous representatives, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through feedback sessions, webinars, and direct communications.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Discovery Fellowships Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Fellowships
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Discovery Fellowships funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Linkage Projects
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Linkage Projects (“Varied Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Linkage Projects (“Original Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines”) on 29 July 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Linkage Projects funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 29 July 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 8 (Eligibility and assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 8.3 (discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 8.4 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024, replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Linkage Projects will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Linkage Projects program: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The consultation for the original 2024 Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines was undertaken to support streamlining and improve the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of the guidelines. It aimed to reduce administrative burden, ensure legislative compliance, and align with broader policy expectations. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through feedback sessions, webinars, and direct communications.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Linkage Projects Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Linkage Projects
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Linkage Projects funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024, second edition – Variation 1): Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024, second edition – Variation 1): Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (“Varied Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities (“Original Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines”) on 29 July 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 29 July 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 8 (Eligibility and assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 8.4 regarding the discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 8.5 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024 replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024, second edition – Variation 1): Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities program: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The consultation for the original 2024 Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines was undertaken to support streamlining and improve the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of the guidelines. It aimed to reduce administrative burden, ensure legislative compliance, and align with broader policy expectations. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through feedback sessions, webinars, and direct communications.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines (2024, second edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024, second edition – Variation 1): Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Industrial Transformation Research Program
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Industrial Transformation Research Program (“Varied Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Industrial Transformation Research Program (“Original Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines”) on 29 July 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Industrial Transformation Research Program funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia. In particular, these Grant Guidelines relate to the Industrial Transformation Research Hubs scheme and the Industrial Transformation Training Centre scheme.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 29 July 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 7 (Eligibility and assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 7.4 regarding the discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 7.5 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024, replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Linkage Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Industrial Transformation Research Program will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Industrial Transformation Research Program program: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The consultation for the original 2024 Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines was undertaken to support streamlining and improve the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of the guidelines. It aimed to reduce administrative burden, ensure legislative compliance, and align with broader policy expectations. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through feedback sessions, webinars, and direct communications.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Industrial Transformation Research Program Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Linkage Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Industrial Transformation Research Program
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Industrial Transformation Research Program funded under the Linkage Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Linkage Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.
EXPLANATORY STATEMENT
Varied Grant Guidelines made under section 60 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Indigenous
Issued by the authority of the Minister for Education
Subject: Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Indigenous (“Varied Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines”)
Authority
The Minister approved the Australian Research Council Act 2001—Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition): Discovery Indigenous (“Original Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines”) on 5 August 2024, under section 59 of the Australian Research Council Act 2001 (the Act).
Section 60 of the Act provides that the Minister must approve variations of Australian Research Council (ARC) Grant Guidelines.
Purpose and effect
These Varied Grant Guidelines relate to Discovery Indigenous funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
In accordance with section 58 of the Act the ARC Board must prepare Grant Guidelines for a grants program, to be provided to the Minister under section 59. Grant Guidelines must contain:
- the eligibility criteria to be met in order for the Board or the Minister to approve the making of grants of financial assistance to organisations under this Division;
- the making of applications by organisations for such an approval;
- the assessment process for deciding which applications will receive such an approval;
- any other matters that the Board considers appropriate.
The Original Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines approved by the Minister on 5 August 2024 complied with section 58.
The Varied Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines:
- Clarify the flowchart on page 3 at “We make grant recommendations”, by explicitly referencing additional steps outlined in clause 7 (Assessment).
- Remove redundant content duplicated in clause 4.1 to improve conciseness and readability.
- Reflect the institutional merger between the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia to form Adelaide University, by introducing a new clause 4.2 and adding Adelaide University to the list of Eligible Organisations at Appendix B.
- Update references to the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy from the 2024 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Update references to the Medical Research Policy from the 2020 version to the 2025 version to maintain alignment with current standards
- Clarify clause 8.4 regarding the discretion to recommend exclusion of incomplete or inaccurate applications) by highlighting that:
- giving false or misleading information is a serious offence under the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth)
- this ground includes failure to disclose conflict of interest of any named participant, including but not limited to matters described in clauses 3.1 and 3.3 of the ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy (2025)
- Clarify clause 8.5 to specify that the ARC may seek information from third party sources when seeking advice on security-related matters.
- Update all references to reflect the updated Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles 2024, replacing the 2017 version.
Documents incorporated by reference
The following documents are incorporated by reference in the Varied Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines:
- ARC Medical Research Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at December 2020)
- ARC Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at July 2025)
- ARC Open Access Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2021)
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018)
- ARC Research Integrity Policy available for free on the ARC website (as at September 2023)
- Australian Indigenous Data Sovereignty Principles available for free on the Maiam Nayri Wingara website (as at 2018)
- AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research available for free on the AIATSIS website (as at 2020)
- NHMRC’s guidelines on Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities available for free on the NHMRC website (as at 2018).
Commencement
The Discovery Program Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Indigenous will take effect on the day after registration on the Federal Register of Legislation.
The provisions
The Original Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines include the information needed for applicants to apply for, and the ARC to decide and award, grants for the Discovery Indigenous programs: grant amount, eligibility, assessment criteria, application process and delivery or grant activities. The Varied Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines do not change the substance of any of these things.
Consultation
The consultation for the original 2024 Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines was undertaken to support streamlining and improve the clarity, usability, and effectiveness of the guidelines. It aimed to reduce administrative burden, ensure legislative compliance, and align with broader policy expectations. The ARC engaged with a wide range of stakeholders including universities, researchers, government agencies, assessors, Indigenous representatives, and internal ARC teams. These consultations were conducted through surveys, workshops, webinars, and direct communications, and informed updates to eligibility criteria, assessment processes, and post-award requirements as part of a broader reform effort.
As required under section 17 of the Legislation Act 2003, the ARC consulted with experts and individuals likely to be affected by the legislative instrument and considered their feedback in finalising the 2024 Guidelines. The revised guidelines were well-received by the sector.
The ARC obtained approval for the original 2024 Guidelines from the Department of Finance and the Minister for Finance, in accordance with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Guidelines (CGRGs) process for releasing new grant opportunity guidelines.
In preparing the Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines (2024 edition – Variation 1), the ARC consulted with:
- the University of Adelaide, the University of South Australia and Adelaide University to ensure a smooth transition for Adelaide University to be recognised as an Eligible Organisation under the ARC’s Guidelines.
- the broader university sector and relevant Government agencies to clarify the importance of applicants providing complete and accurate information in their applications, and the consequences of failing to do so. Changes to the Guidelines clarify these existing expectations.
The ARC obtained acceptance for the Varied Discovery Indigenous Grant Guidelines from the Department of Finance in accordance with the process agencies must follow when seeking agreement to release revised grant opportunity guidelines.
Given the administrative nature and low impact changes, the ARC determined that additional consultation was not required for the varied version of the Guidelines.
Regulatory Impact Statement
These Grant Guidelines include a number of measures that reduce regulatory burden on the higher education sector. This includes coordination with the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) to produce a timeline that minimises the burden on the sector in relation to preparation and submission of proposals.
Statement of compatibility with human rights
Prepared in accordance with Part 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011
Grant Guidelines for schemes under the Discovery Program Grant Guidelines
(2024 edition – Variation 1): Discovery Indigenous
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with the human rights and freedoms recognised or declared in the international instruments listed in section 3 of the Human Rights (Parliamentary Scrutiny) Act 2011.
Overview of the Disallowable Legislative Instrument
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument sets out the Varied Grant Opportunity Guidelines for Discovery Indigenous funded under the Discovery Program of the ARC National Competitive Grants Program, for applications made after the date of the Minister’s approval. The Discovery Program supports the growth of Australia’s research and innovation capacity, which generates new knowledge resulting in the development of new technologies, products and ideas, the creation of jobs, economic growth and an enhanced quality of life in Australia.
Human rights implications
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument does not engage any of the applicable rights or freedoms.
Conclusion
This Disallowable Legislative Instrument is compatible with human rights as it does not raise any human rights issues.