The Australian Research Council (ARC) has outlined proposed changes to the National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) aimed at enhancing support for researchers at all career stages. These changes follow the release of the discussion paper A New Plan for ARC Funded Research in February 2025, which received nearly 350 submissions offering a wide range of views on how to improve the program’s support for Australia’s research and innovation ecosystem.
Consultation feedback showed strong support for simplifying the NCGP by reducing the number of schemes. There was clear endorsement for prioritising early career researchers (ECRs) and high-risk, high-reward research. However, respondents cautioned against combining these goals in one scheme due to potential complexity. The current embedded fellowship model was described as difficult to administer, and there was strong emphasis on the need for continued ARC support for collaborative research infrastructure, especially during the ongoing Strategic Examination of Research and Development (SERD).
In response to the consultation, several model enhancements will be introduced. A standalone fellowship scheme will be established for ECRs, with a focus on supporting excellent researchers at the early stages of their careers. Opportunities for mid-career and senior researchers will shift towards project-based support and mentorship roles, with additional funding for HDR and postdoctoral researchers included in a Lead and Mentor scheme. A separate scheme will be created to support high-risk, exploratory research across all career stages. Collaborative infrastructure funding will continue under a sub-scheme within the Collaborate Program.
These proposed changes align with broader reforms in the research sector and follow recommendations from the Review of the Australian Research Council Act 2001. The new model is designed to remain flexible and adaptable to changing research needs and government policy directions.
The ARC, in collaboration with the Department of Education and its Board, plans to submit a final report to the government in the third quarter of 2025. A clear and structured transition process is being developed to ensure the smooth implementation of the new NCGP model.
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