Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has unveiled a new research and development (R&D) grant initiative aimed at accelerating the growth of the domestic battery industry and expanding export opportunities, particularly in the United States.
The $400,000 program offers successful mining and manufacturing small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) up to $50,000 per project, along with access to CSIRO’s cutting-edge research facilities and expertise.
The initiative focuses on improving the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of graphite, a critical mineral essential for battery production.
Dr Adam Best, CSIRO Principal Research Scientist, emphasised Australia’s potential to become a key supplier of specialised graphite for batteries to global markets, given the country’s significant natural resources.
“This grant opportunity will help Australian businesses develop innovative technologies and processes needed to become global leaders in natural graphite production for battery applications,” Dr Best stated.
He added that the initiative is particularly timely, as global supply chains face disruptions and countries seek to diversify their sources of critical minerals.
Eligible projects for funding include spheronisation, purification, and electrochemical testing of natural graphite, as well as research into synthetic graphite production, graphite recycling, and techniques to enhance graphite quality and performance in battery applications.
Successful applicants will also have access to CSIRO’s characterisation facilities to analyse specific natural graphite resources.
The program aligns with broader government strategies, forming part of the federal government’s Batteries Research and Development Program, which supports the National Battery Strategy, Critical Minerals Strategy, and the Future Made in Australia agenda.
Applications for the grant are currently open, with the deadline set for March 30, 2026, or earlier if the total available funding is exhausted.
Interested SMEs are encouraged to review the Graphite R&D Grant Opportunity Guidelines and submit an expression of interest as the first step in the application process.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for Australian SMEs to contribute to the growing battery industry, strengthen domestic research and production capabilities, and create new jobs and economic growth in the country.
