Defence Industry Development Grants Program - Skilling Stream

# Defence Industry Development Grants Program - Skilling Stream The **Defence Industry Development Grants Program (Skilling Stream)**, issued by the **Australian Department of Defence**, is a funding opportunity designed to enhance Australia's defence industrial base and workforce capabilities. This stream specifically targets the upskilling and training of personnel in priority trade, technical, and professional skillsets crucial for meeting Defence requirements and supporting **Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities**. The program runs for four years from 2024-25 to 2027-28, with a total funding pool of **$169,100,000**. ## elligibility Eligible applicants include **Australian SMEs** with less than 200 employees or **Defence Industry Associations (DIAs)**. Applicants must possess an Australian Business Number (ABN), be registered for GST, have an Australian financial institution account, and be non-income tax exempt. Eligible entity types include an entity incorporated in Australia, a company limited by guarantee, or an incorporated trustee on behalf of a trust. Ineligible entities include individuals, partnerships, overseas organisations, unincorporated associations, trusts (unless an incorporated trustee applies), and government bodies. Partnering is permitted, but a lead organisation must be designated. ## ⚙️ Application & Process This is an **Open Competitive** grant process. Applications officially open on **Tuesday, June 18, 2024**. For application submission and detailed guidelines, visit **business.gov.au/DIDgrants**. Further assistance and advice are available via business.gov.au channels, including phone (13 28 46), email, and web chat. **Keywords**: Defence grants, Australian defence industry, workforce development, skills training, SME funding, industrial capability, strategic priorities, trade skills, technical skills, professional development, national security.