Date: 7 April 2026 Changes have been made to the upcoming Discovery Indigenous 2027 round, scheduled to open on 2 June 2026. The Discovery Indigenous scheme supports excellent, investigator-driven research led by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander researchers, delivering social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits for Australia. What has changed Chief Investigator roles will be held by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander researchers, reflecting the scheme’s focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led research across all disciplines. This change will reinforce Indigenous leadership and strengthen Australia’s Indigenous researcher workforce. Researchers who are not Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander may continue to participate as Partner Investigators, or may be eligible to apply for funding under other ARC schemes, where appropriate. The Grant Opportunity Guidelines and supporting materials will be published on GrantConnect ahead of the scheme opening. These include additional updates to improve clarity, consistency and transparency for applicants, and to align with the ARC’s statutory responsibilities, including research integrity, due diligence and research security. As the Grant Opportunity Guidelines are legislative instruments they have been tabled in Parliament and are subject to a disallowable period which is scheduled to conclude on 29 June 2026. If disallowed, the ARC will provide further advice to Research Offices. Why this change has been made The revised Chief Investigator eligibility requirement reinforces the core intent of the Discovery Indigenous scheme to support Indigenous research leadership across all disciplines, create a stronger Indigenous researcher pipeline and grow the Indigenous researcher workforce. What Research Offices should do We encourage you to share this information with relevant academic and professional staff within your organisation. To support applicants to make the most of the Discovery Indigenous grant opportunity, Research Offices are encouraged to: familiarise relevant staff with the updated eligibility requirements and participation pathways work early with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers to support the development of strong, compliant applications ensure non-Indigenous collaborators understand Partner Investigator roles and alternative ARC funding options cascade clear and consistent messaging across your organisation, referring applicants to this communique as the authoritative source of advice.