$250K QDSA Defence Research Grants – 2025 EOIs Now Open

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: Griffith University James Cook University University of Queensland 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) Detection of threats/humans/infrastructure in littoral zones Bathymetric and terrain beach surveys Secure data sharing between assets Data fusion and Common Operational Picture integration 2. Command & Control (C2) Operational and tactical level interoperability 3. Cyber Operations Effects and security 4. Logistics Ship-to-shore personnel and equipment transport Wireless (RF, laser) and wired (optical fibre) comms All proposals must consider: Integration with in-service systems Multi-domain/amphibious capabilities Signature and power management 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 For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]