Media Release Date: 25 November 2025 The Australian Research Council (ARC) has awarded $102.7 million to support 200 new Discovery Early Career Researcher Award (DECRA) projects, strengthening Australia’s research capability and global competitiveness. The ARC’s DECRA projects foster collaboration with national and international collaborators to address critical knowledge gaps and deliver solutions that address economic, environmental, social, and cultural challenges to improve quality of life and driving sustainable progress for all Australians. ARC Chief Executive Officer Professor Ute Roessner said the newly funded projects will ensure that Australia remains at the forefront of global research and innovation, building a skilled workforce and delivering impact. ‘The ARC is proud to be empowering the next generation of research leaders to thrive in supportive environments, collaborate globally, and deliver outcomes that matter,’ Professor Roessner said. The funded projects span diverse fields including research into evidence-based approaches to ensure safe, age-appropriate social media use, water governance for sustainable ecosystems, artificial intelligence software infrastructure, and achieving carbon neutrality in the construction sector. For a full list of funded projects, refer to the Discovery Early Career Researcher Award 2026 Grant Announcement Kit. Media contact: ARC Communications 0412 623 056 or communications@arc.gov.au.