From Discovery to Explore: Making Sense of the ARC's New Schemes

The Australian Research Council (ARC) has released the final report of its National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) review, outlining the most significant changes to ARC funding in decades. The reforms introduce a new suite of schemes, stronger support for early-career and Indigenous researchers, increased emphasis on collaboration and national priorities, and a staged transition from 2027 to 2029.

This session will provide Griffith researchers with an overview of the reforms announced to date, what has been formally confirmed by the ARC, and where significant uncertainty remains. 

Key Topics

• Overview of the proposed new scheme landscape and tentative timelines.
• Known transition arrangements, including Discovery Projects 2028 and the phased introduction of new schemes.
• What remains unknown, including scheme-specific settings, eligibility requirements and assessment processes.
• Educated speculation: emerging discussions, and possible directions of travel.