The Australian Research Council’s National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) is a cornerstone of Australia’s research system. Since 2001, the ARC has supported over 34,000 research projects. The NCGP supports high-quality research that expands knowledge, builds capability and delivers long-term benefit for Australia. It enables investment in ideas, people and partnerships domestically and internationally that strengthen Australia’s research capacity and contribute to discovery, innovation and national wellbeing. A revitalised program for Australia’s research future In July 2026, the ARC released the final report of the NCGP Policy Review. The report sets out a clear direction for a simpler, more coherent grants program. The review reaffirms the importance of excellent research across all disciplines and the critical role research plays in supporting Australia’s economic, social and environmental outcomes. The need for change For 25 years, NCGP supported research has created new knowledge and research capability, benefiting communities, industry and government. Over time, the number of funding schemes increased to 15, creating complexity and additional burden for researchers and institutions. Extensive stakeholder consultation undertaken as part of the review highlighted the need to: simplify schemes and reduce complexity strengthen support for early-stage research build Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research capability and capacity deepen collaboration across the research system, including with industry, other end users and internationally. The revitalised NCGP responds to these findings and ensures the program continues to deliver value into the future. What is changing The revitalisation refocuses the NCGP on its core purpose of funding the best early-stage research for the benefit of Australia. The revitalised NCGP will: introduce a simpler, more coherent suite of schemes strengthen support for early-career researchers and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research and researchers improve collaboration across research and with industry, government, international, community sector and end users in all schemes support greater alignment with national benefit. These changes will also position the program to respond to national priorities and government’s expectations around research integrity, research security and the broader contribution of research to Australian society. The ARC will also reform the NCGP assessment process as part of the implementation of new schemes. What is not changing NCGP will continue to fund high-quality research and to emphasise: research excellence, equity and opportunity rigorous expert assessment and peer review strong foundations of integrity, research security, fairness and transparency. These elements will continue to underpin funding decisions under the ARC’s legislative framework, with reforms designed to strengthen their application. Find out more about changes to NCGP New NCGP Schemes – Overview Find out more about the new NCGP schemes, including transition timelines, engagement sessions and information resources. Revitalised NCGP - FAQ Find answers to frequently asked questions about upcoming changes to the NCGP. Policy Review of the NCGP Information about the Policy Review of the NCGP including consultation and the final report. Policy Review of the NCGP - FAQs Find answers to frequently asked questions from the policy review. Next steps Further information will be released progressively as reform implementation and scheme design work continues, including: scheme-specific details implementation timelines transition arrangements stakeholder engagement opportunities, including briefings and webinars The ARC remains committed to clear, timely and transparent communication throughout implementation and will continue to engage closely with the sector as work progresses.