The Federal Government is providing businesses with grants of up to $2 million for research, supply chain and export activities.

The supply chain resilience initiative provides up to $2m to establish a project to address supply chain vulnerabilities for a critical product or input.

To be eligible, the project must address vulnerabilities identified in the Sovereign Manufacturing Capability Plan, designed to incentivise Australian businesses to invest in equipment, technology, skills and processes.

Successful applicants will help contribute to the goals outlined in the plan.

Applications close on August 12, 2021.

 

Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) program

The CRC program supports industry, researchers and the community on projects lasting up to 10 years.

CRC grants are available to support short (three years) to long-term (10 years) industry-led collaborative research.

To be eligible, a project must aim to solve problems identified by industry and improve the competitiveness, productivity and sustainability of Australian industries.

It must also include an industry-focused education and training program, including a PhD program that builds capability and capacity.

In addition, it must encourage industry to take up research.

There is no specified funding limit for each CRC, and the number of grants allocated will depend on available funding.

Applications close on August 24, 2021.

 

International Freight Mechanism 

The Government has extended the International Freight Assistance Mechanism as Australia continues to battle COVID-19.

The mechanism, which helps agribusiness exporters defend their markets, is a temporary emergency response measure.

It provides exporters and importers financial support to re-establish supply chains into and out of Australia during the pandemic.

It is designed to reduce the economic burden COVID-19 has on businesses that rely on airfreight, as well as the impact of COVID-19 on workers.

The mechanism has been extended until October 31, 2021, as part of the Federal Government’s four-stage plan to lead the economy out of COVID-19.

 

CCIWA helps businesses pursue export opportunities via its International Trade and Investment Centre.

For advice and guidance, contact CCIWA’s Employee Relations Advice Centre on (08) 9365 7660 or [email protected].