The Queensland Defence Science Alliance (QDSA) has officially opened Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for its 2025 Collaborative Research Grants (CRG), with up to $250,000 in funding available for each successful proposal. EOIs close 8 August 2025.
The CRG program is QDSA’s flagship initiative, supporting high-impact projects that align with Defence innovation priorities. These projects must be collaborative, led by a QDSA member university, and run for 12–18 months, progressing technologies from research to prototype.
“Following a successful 2024 CRG round, we expect even stronger proposals in 2025. Collaboration between universities and industry is key. This year’s focus on proof-of-concept projects will drive outcomes ready to transition into Defence capability,” said QDSA Director, Stu Blackwell.
With the recent addition of Charles Darwin University to the Alliance, QDSA now includes:
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Griffith University
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James Cook University
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University of Queensland
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Charles Darwin University
Collaborative applications involving Defence industry partners and/or additional member universities are strongly encouraged.
2025 CRG Focus: Littoral Operations
The 2025 round is centred on the theme of Littoral Operations, reflecting Defence’s strategic priorities across maritime, amphibious, and near-shore environments. Key focus areas include:
1. Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR)
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Detection of threats/humans/infrastructure in littoral zones
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Bathymetric and terrain beach surveys
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Secure data sharing between assets
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Data fusion and Common Operational Picture integration
2. Command & Control (C2)
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Operational and tactical level interoperability
3. Cyber Operations
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Effects and security
4. Logistics
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Ship-to-shore personnel and equipment transport
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Wireless (RF, laser) and wired (optical fibre) comms
All proposals must consider:
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Integration with in-service systems
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Multi-domain/amphibious capabilities
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Signature and power management
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Environmental and support resilience
Networking Event – 10 July 2025
To support proposal development, QDSA will host a Briefing and Networking Evening on Thursday, 10 July 2025, bringing together researchers and industry to explore partnership opportunities aligned with CRG goals.
EOI Deadline: 8 August 2025
Funding Available: Up to $250,000 per project
Eligibility: QDSA member universities (with industry encouraged)
Project Duration: 12–18 months
Program Theme: Littoral Operations
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