UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Improved wheat and soybean for the Australian agrifood sector. This project aims to develop high-yielding, nutrient-dense wheat and soybean crops tailored to the Australian food and feed industries and builds on multiple discoveries arising from a previously awarded ARC Linkage project. The project will employ innovative plant breeding methods to boost levels of naturally occurring phytonutrients that enhance iron and zinc uptake in plants and improve dietary absorption in animals. Expected outcomes include novel health claims for bread, improved livestock feed formulations for poultry and pigs, and crops with stacked nutritional traits. The benefits encompass higher-value food and feed products, greater returns for Australian growers and stronger national resilience to global supply chain disruptions. Field of research: 3108 - Plant Biology Australia consistently ranks among the world's top three exporters of wheat, however, nutrient-poor soils often limit the growth and nutritional quality of Australian wheat crops. Conversely, Australia is a net importer of soybean and heavily reliant on other countries to secure sufficient soybean meal and flour for livestock feed and food applications. This research will improve the nutritional quality and yield of Australian wheat and soybean using innovative breeding methods that have quick paths to market, resulting in increased productivity and sustainability of the Australian cropping, livestock feed and breadmaking industries. The research findings will be promoted to the grains industry through Living Farm, a Western Australia-based R&D company with deep connections to a wide range of agribusinesses throughout the Wheatbelt, and to the livestock feed industry through the biotech startup company 121SEED. The research will also be shared with millions of bread consumers by Bakers Delight, Australia’s most successful bakery franchise, through the development and promotion of novel bread types containing high levels of bioavailable iron and other essential nutrients. The project will provide invaluable opportunities for an established team of higher education researchers at the University of Melbourne, University of South Australia and Cornell University to translate several recent discoveries in crop and food nutrition into tangible products for the agrifood sector.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Building the Financial Capacity of Australia's Cooperative Housing Sector . This project aims to tackle Australia’s housing crisis by addressing the financial gaps of the affordable cooperative housing sector. Using novel techniques of scenario-based prototype modelling, it expects to: uncover the sector’s financial possibility; foreground new finance progression pathways; and propose policy reforms for sector growth. Expected outcomes include new sector knowledge, enhanced investment confidence, actionable financial toolkits and policy guidelines to scale the sector as a new tenure class. Key benefits derived from novel sector finance and policy support mechanisms will include: a completed national affordable housing continuum, significant public saving, empowered communities, and a vibrant cooperative economy. Field of research: 3304 - Urban and Regional Planning Australia is experiencing a housing affordability crisis. A top-down reform agenda reinforces private rental/ownership duopoly and an incomplete housing spectrum. Cooperative Housing – where ownership is shared for affordability rather than profit – offers an intermediate option that is affordable, sustainable and empowering. Although mainstream and fast-growing globally, this sector is marginal in Australia. Three crucial research gaps in: the sector’s financial capacity; novel yet feasible financial partnerships; and enabling policy frameworks, have handicapped its growth, impeded investment confidence, and delayed innovative and proactive public sponsorship of sector growth. Taking a multi-sectoral, multi-disciplinary, and multi-method approach, this project aims to fill these gaps and offer effective levers in mitigating the housing crisis. In doing so we can expect: economic benefits due to employment and productivity gains and reduced public spending; social benefits due to enhanced agency, security, and wellbeing; commercial benefits through new financial and policy toolkits; and environmental and cultural benefits by empowering and facilitating common-interest groups. Outcomes will be promoted via a dedicated academic-cooperatives-policy advocacy coalition built through this project. It will support government actions via 14 roundtables and frequent briefs; upskill industry with demo workshops, guidelines and talks; and generate public support via multimedia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Student wellbeing:Identifying key supports and high-impact school practices. Schools are a critical platform for a more equitable and productive Australia. This project aims to better understand the social determinants for life outcomes through an examination of early and proximal predictors of learning, engagement and well-being. It will transform educational research from small-scale, cross-sectional studies to sector-wide, longitudinal analyses using advanced new analytic methods (e.g., Machine learning, Person-centred). Expected outcomes are a cutting-edge student longitudinal well-being databank and datalab and new knowledge about when certain predictors matter most across the schooling years. Findings will be translated to support schools in ensuring high impact strategies at critical developmental stages. Field of research: 5201 - Applied and Developmental Psychology Schools are central to the nation’s future health, wellbeing, and productivity. As near-universal institutions, they are uniquely positioned to support the development of the whole student—beyond academic learning—by fostering wellbeing and engagement. Despite this emphasis there remains limited, high quality evidence that can guide schools as to the early and proximal predictors of future positive learning and socio-emotional growth. In collaboration with key partners, this project will bring together new data science techniques (Machine learning, Person-centred) and large-scale longitudinal education and health survey and administrative information. It will be a world leading data infrastructure utilised to broaden our understanding of factors that have the strongest influence on student well-being, engagement and learning in schools and when certain factors matter most, across primary and secondary schooling. Importantly, the project will also provide a model for schools on how to translate and embed research findings to affect practices that can effectively and efficiently support positive student outcomes.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Transforming the diagnosis and treatment of a degenerative equine disease. This project aims to investigate how the misfolded protein, alpha synuclein, causes muscle atrophy in a common disease affecting 1 in 5 older horses and ponies; using in vitro and clinical studies. This would generate new knowledge about how this misfolded protein causes disease in horses. Expected outcomes of this project include the development of a more accurate diagnostic test for this condition, enabling the earlier identification of affected individuals, and testing novel drug treatments. The project should provide significant benefits, positioning Australian equine researchers at the global forefront as well as addressing a critical research gap and delivering benefits to the Australian horse industry and improving equine welfare. Field of research: 3009 - Veterinary Sciences The Australian horse industry is a major economic contributor, generating several billion dollars annually and supporting over 75,000 jobs across various sectors, particularly in rural communities. One in five senior horses suffer a degenerative condition that results in muscle wasting. Currently, many horses suffer from delayed or inaccurate diagnoses, reducing their quality of life. This project will develop a more accurate diagnostic test for this condition and will pioneer a novel approach to preventing welfare limiting muscle wasting in these animals. Addressing a critical research gap, our work positions Australian equine researchers at the global forefront. Our test will enable early, effective treatment and significantly improve animal welfare and veterinary capability. This research will benefit the veterinary and pharmaceutical industries by providing more effective tools to treat and diagnose equine degeneration. Horse owners will enjoy longer, healthier, and more productive animals. To broaden impact, we will share our outcomes through industry and horse owner publications, engage with veterinarians at conferences, seminars and through continuing professional education; and build strong industry partnerships with the veterinary pharmaceutical industry. By promoting understanding, translation, and adoption of our findings, we will deliver lasting economic, social, and cultural benefits to horse owners and allied industries across Australia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Guarding Asia’s Democratic Pillars Against Backsliding. The project aims to collaboratively develop and refine the Asian Parliamentary Transparency Index over three years, to assess parliamentary openness in Asia. Its significance lies in enhancing legislative transparency and integrity, crucial factors for fostering proactive resilience against democratic backsliding in the region. Key expected outcomes include finalising the index and making a public announcement, alongside comprehensive training for parliamentary monitoring organisations on its effective utilisation. The project supports civil society by providing a robust, evidence-based tool to directly inform and strengthen advocacy strategies for greater accountability, ultimately empowering citizens. Field of research: 4499 - Other Human Society This project is developing the Asian Parliamentary Transparency Index, a new tool to assess how open parliaments are across Asia. It addresses a key gap as existing tools are not specifically designed for Asia, particularly when democratic practices are under pressure. The project aligns with Australia’s commitment to open government, as outlined in the Third Open Government Partnership National Action Plan (2024-2025), which seeks to improve public participation and strengthen integrity. Australians could benefit by seeing Australia take a global lead in promoting democratic values and accountability in our region. By contributing valuable knowledge to the global open government agenda, the Index can help inform parliamentary initiatives to enhance legislative transparency in the Asia-Pacific, fostering stronger regional governance. This supports Australia’s interests in a stable and transparent neighbourhood. To promote outcomes beyond academic circles, the project plans events to disseminate the Index and a comprehensive report analysing parliamentary transparency detailing country-specific findings. Training will be provided to civil society organisations so they can effectively use the Index to advocate for greater parliamentary openness. Advocacy materials will be developed, and successful strategies will be shared. The Index will be designed as a living document, refined over time based on user feedback.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Bloomguard: Smart diagnostics for toxic algae in recycled water. We aim to develop and deploy rapid diagnostics to improve management of toxic algal blooms in Australian recycled waters. Recycled water provides $19 billion pa in economic benefit to Australia. Toxic algal blooms regularly threaten recycled water supplies, particularly over summer when they are most needed. Current diagnostics are inadequate, leading to early and unnecessarily intervention to avoid supply disruption, which costs the national water sector an excess ~$200 million pa. Rapid, accurate toxic bloom diagnostics at source will greatly improve toxic bloom management, reduce costs associated with pre-mature or unnecessary interventions and support long-term sustainablility of vital recycled water resources. Field of research: 4103 - Environmental Biotechnology Recycled water (RW) underpins long-term water sustainability of Australian agriculture, industry, urban supply and environmental flows. It provides an annual economic benefit of $19 billion, expected to rise 45% by 2050. Toxic algal blooms are a major risk to RW facilities, contaminating and disrupting supply when it is most needed. Reducing this risk requires diagnostics that support a nimble and effective response. Yet current methods take days, forcing operators to act pre-emptively. Unnecessary interventions cost the sector $200 million per year and still leave it vulnerable to sudden contamination and shutdowns. Working with the Australian water sector, we will develop rapid deployable diagnostics to support effective bloom management, meaning fewer, more cost-effective, responses. This brings major benefits to Australian water security, agriculture, industry, the environment and consumers via reduced costs and interruptions to the RW supply. The same technology is readily transferable to drinking-water and coastal or inland waterways, amplifying national benefit. Our partnership with WaterRA, the peak body uniting Australia’s water utilities, regulators and researchers, will drive rapid adoption and skills transfer, ensuring benefit to the entire sector. Strengthening Australia’s ability to manage blooms proactively delivers tangible economic, environmental and social dividends and positions the nation at the forefront of smart, climate-resilient water management.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

The Australian Cancer Journey in Historical Perspective. This project proposes the first comprehensive history of cancer and its control in Australia, 1925-2025. An interdisciplinary approach will allow us to better understand cancer as a lived experience, uncover social inequities, interrogate cultural representations, analyse policy and power, and understand advocacy and education. The project aims to explore the national response to cancer as a population health and individual challenge by working with industry to examine the history of the national effort across science and medicine; surveillance, screening and education; policy and law; advocacy and education; and as manifested in Australian cultural life. The results should significantly inform improved future practice and health outcomes. Field of research: 4303 - Historical Studies One in every two Australians is diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. The endurance and pervasiveness of the cancer problem, its changing forms, and its unequal effects, help to explain why it continues to strike fear in Australians as a powerful cultural force. This major challenge exists despite significant advances in scientific knowledge and medical treatment over the past century, as well as work in advocacy, education, and legal and policy responses for cancer control. This project aims to investigate the long history of the national response to cancer as a cultural conundrum. Using an innovative public health humanities framework, it will work in co-design with industry to ensure that its research will directly inform health promotion, education and policy for improved future health outcomes. The project seeks to develop enhanced community understanding of the cancer journey as a cultural phenomenon influenced by complex and intersecting factors including institutional priorities, health messaging, social norms and expectations, geographic location, class, gender and ethnicity. The project will produce concrete results of use to scholars, policy makers, legislators, educators, students and the public. Books and journal articles will be augmented by three key translational outputs: a curated digital archive of historic material on cancer control, a digital map of cancer control organisations and interventions, and an Australian Cancer Stories website.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

A One Health Strategy for Companion Animal Health in Aboriginal Communities. Companion animals share strong cultural and familial ties with Aboriginal people. However, their health is deeply affected by parasitic diseases, overpopulation, and limited access to culturally appropriate care. This project will use advanced diagnostics to create the first genetic database of parasites and vector-borne pathogens in dogs and cats in Indigenous communities. Using an Indigenist approach, it will support First Nations-led identification of current strengths and gaps in practice to guide the co-design of educational resources. This project aims to reshape how animal health is managed in Aboriginal communities and support the delivery of long-term, culturally appropriate strategies by governments and service providers. Field of research: 3009 - Veterinary Sciences This project addresses persistent challenges in remote Indigenous communities, where companion animal overpopulation, limited access to veterinary care, and high parasite burdens impact the health of animals, people, and the environment. Dogs are deeply woven into the cultural and social fabric of many First Nations communities, featuring in Dreamtime stories and kinship systems, with some communities having up to 62 dogs per 100 people – twice the national average. Using advanced molecular methods, this project will create the first genetic database of parasites found in dogs and cats in these areas. It will also engage First Nations Peoples to identify local priorities to guide the co-design of culturally appropriate education resources and support strategies grounded in community knowledge, values, and practices. In collaboration with our partners, this project will reduce disease risk, improve animal wellbeing, and guide the development of new treatments for animal parasites living in Indigenous communities. Outcomes will be shared through public databases, education materials, and engagement with community leaders, animal service providers, and policymakers. This nationally significant, community-led project will offer a scalable model for sustainable animal health, strengthen Indigenous leadership and biosecurity measures, and inform policies that connect animal, environmental, and human health across Australia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Cementless carbon-negative activated clay concrete structures. This project aims to develop a cementless carbon-negative concrete technology that relies on materials widely available in Australia. The project will generate new knowledge to establish an activated clay concrete technology providing a secure and significant carbon sink while remaining structurally sound and durable. The technology will be suitable for mass production and for applications in buildings and the built environment. The project is expected to transform the current concrete industry by replacing traditional cements and calcination processes to address decarbonisation needs of the cement industry that is responsible for about 8% of the world’s CO2, with significant benefits for the Australian building and construction industry. Field of research: 4005 - Civil Engineering The building and construction sector accounts for 37% of the world’s CO2 emissions. As cement, a key component of concrete, produces about 8% of the world’s CO2, it alone has a significant carbon footprint. This sector is not on track to achieve Australia’s net zero operational emissions by 2030 or net zero by 2050 due to a widening gap between the required and actual decarbonisation pathways. Yet, partially replacing cement in concrete is not an effective solution for decarbonisation because the industry remains hesitant to adopt non-traditional mixes. Instead, a shift to cementless concrete, supported by industry-driven research and innovation, is essential. This project will develop a new activated clay concrete technology that is cementless and carbon-negative. Importantly, these activated clay materials are abundant industrial waste in Australia and the new technology will use the same equipment used in concrete production. Project results will be shared to government and the sector via workshops, articles and media. This project has important economic, environmental, and social benefits for Australia. Production costs will be lower as the manufacturing process will use less energy and repurposing waste reduces costs of materials. Landfill and production emissions will be reduced. Overall, reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and infrastructure will support the implementation of effective strategies to achieve our net zero goals.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Inclusive Arts for Children with Complex Disabilities . This project aims to address the persistent exclusion of children with complex disability from full cultural participation by investigating how to create and sustain high-quality performances for and with this audience. Co-designed and delivered with leading inclusive arts organisations, it expects to generate new knowledge by mapping the national ecosystem, conducting case studies of best practice, and delivering peer learning exchanges between artists with and without disability. Expected outcomes include sector events, practice guidelines, and an evidence base to inform future investment. This should stimulate workforce development and new inclusive arts work, providing significant benefits by advancing cultural equity and participation. Field of research: 3904 - Specialist Studies In Education This project addresses a critical national gap in understanding how to create high-quality, inclusive performance for children with complex disabilities—an audience historically excluded from full cultural participation and largely overlooked in disability-arts research. As the first major study of this highly specialised field, co-designed with leading inclusive arts organisations, it will map the national ecosystem of performance for and with children with disabilities, undertake in-depth case studies, and deliver peer learning exchanges between artists with and without disability, culminating in public-facing sector events. Guided by principles of care, inclusion, and collaboration, the research promotes cultural equity and supports the national research priority of healthy and thriving communities. It will strengthen Australia’s creative economy by fostering artistic innovation, creative capacity, and inclusive employment in the performing arts. Outcomes include a practical resource suite—project website, national ecosystem map, policy briefs, artist development workshops, and inclusive arts guidelines—co-developed with partners and shared through targeted sector engagement. This project will establish a robust evidence base and strategic roadmap for inclusive arts with and for children with disability, enhancing collaboration, informing cultural infrastructure, and shaping national cultural policy.

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Unlocking the fundamental log-law constants for turbulent flow... Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Multiscale mathematical modelling of menstrual cycle dynamics. This interdisciplinary project aims to develop novel mathematical models to unify understanding of how key components of the menstrual cycle interact to regulate healthy function. The project’s goal is to use these models to establish a baseline definition of a healthy menstrual cycle and normal variation, and to gain new understanding into how immune response varies with cycle phase and reproductive age. Expected outcomes of the project include new mathematical techniques that will be widely useful for applications in biology, and a new approach to understanding female physiology. This is anticipated to provide a powerful tool for future uterine research, placing Australia as a leader in novel approaches to understanding Women’s Health. Field of research: 4901 - Applied Mathematics This project will build the first complete mathematical model of the menstrual cycle, encompassing the different stages of the reproductive lifetime from menarche (first period) though to menopause, a pivotal step in resolving the current severe deficit in our understanding of female physiology. Only with a comprehensive understanding of the key biological systems involved in the menstrual cycle will we be able to fully understand the dysfunctions that lead to gynaecological diseases, which have been estimated to cost the Australian economy over $7 billion annually. This project will address this research gap by building an understanding of how key physiological systems are regulated over the menstrual cycle using mathematical modelling. With a model developed, hypotheses for dysfunction will emerge which will guide future health and medical research into diseases such as endometriosis. This foundational project will develop novel mathematical approaches to address a high priority research area in mathematical biology: integration of data and mathematical models that span multiple spatial and temporal scales. This project will elevate Australia to be the world-leader in mathematical modelling applied to gynaecology. Results of the project will be freely available to the public and downstream medical researchers through open-access publishing, and through accessible non-academic avenues such as scientific commentaries, promoting women’s understanding of their own physiology.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Growing up, ageing well: Intergenerational programs to build communities . The Australian care sector is under acute stress from an aging population, developmentally vulnerable children, and workforce shortages. This project addresses these problems by designing and evaluating an innovative model of co-located intergenerational care. The project will generate new knowledge on the built environment features that facilitate intergenerational engagement; the active ingredients for successful learning experiences; and a framework to evaluate intergenerational program impact on older adults, children, families and the care workforce. The project will build evidence on how co-locating older adults and young children creates cohesive care and thriving communities, leading to social, cultural, and educational benefits. Field of research: 3903 - Education Systems The Australian care sector faces a perfect storm - an aging population facing rising levels of loneliness, one in five young children experiencing developmental vulnerability, and an aged-care and early childhood workforce with significant retention problems. This linkage project addresses all these issues by developing and evaluating an innovative model of co-located intergenerational care. The real potential of intergenerational communities is in consistent intentional and incidental interactions, however these programs have not been fully examined or robustly evaluated, especially with respect to children and the care workforce. We will develop an evidence-based model that specifies the built environment elements necessary for co-located intergenerational settings; the active ingredients required for successful learning experiences; and provide a robust evaluation framework to understand the impact of such programs on four groups – the elderly, children, families and the care workforce. While addressing the Australian government’s policy focus on the care sector, the model will enable scale-up of high-quality, sustainable, co-located intergenerational programs delivering social, cultural and economic benefits through thriving learning and care communities. We will distribute the model widely by leveraging our own and our partners’ extensive aged-care and early childhood networks, support evidence-based training, and thus develop capacity in the combined workforces.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Reliable and Cost-effective Silicon Laser Power Converters . This project aims to develop novel laser power converters for use in wireless power transfer systems. The expected research outputs – laser power converters – must be robust, safe, and resilient to high illumination while maintaining high optical-to-electrical conversion efficiency. We will leverage recent advances in high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies to develop silicon laser power converters capable of operating under intense monochromatic illumination. This will enable power transfer demonstrations with optical-to-electrical efficiencies approaching 40%. These systems can be used to rapidly establish power networks in emergencies, hostile environments, or power remote devices in motion. Field of research: 4009 - Electronics, Sensors and Digital Hardware Access to electrical power is especially critical during crises, where it supports rapid temporary emergency services for medical and communication systems. Laser power beaming offers a promising solution for delivering energy rapidly over kilometres. This technology uses a laser to transmit power to a photovoltaic receiver—similar to a solar cell—placed where power is needed. Current photovoltaic receivers are expensive and have limited reliability. For widespread adoption, these power receivers must be affordable and deliver high optical-to-electrical efficiency while operating safely under intense illumination. Working with our Australian partner, PELOS, this project aims to leverage recent advances in high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies to develop novel photonic power receivers, designed for eventual integration into PELOS’ system for moderate power transfer. If successful, these power receivers will be a critical step toward the commercial viability of PELOS’ laser power beaming system. Project outcomes will be shared with industry and government through seminars, demonstrations, and media. The creation of a cutting-edge, Australian-designed and manufactured technology has commercial, economic and social benefits. Ultimately, this innovation will allow emergency teams to deploy remote, reconfigurable power where it’s most needed—improving emergency services, enhancing national resilience and creating global export opportunities.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Wearable mid-infrared microspectrometer for air pollution monitoring. This project aims to develop a compact, low-cost, low-power mid-infrared microspectrometer to detect and measure air pollution gases. It will be integrated into a powered air purifying respirator (PAPR) from partner Empowered Startups. The device will help users reduce health risks from air pollution, linked to an estimated 3,200 deaths annually in Australia. The outcome will be a prototype PAPR that filters particulates and gases while the microspectrometer identifies and quantifies them, reporting results to the user. Anticipated benefits include improved health, pollution source tracking, economic savings, and commercial potential through an innovative product. Field of research: 5102 - Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics There is a growing need for chemical sensing technologies, especially for gases. One important application is the monitoring of air pollution. According to Australian Government estimates, air pollution is linked to more than 3000 deaths per year, at an estimated cost of more than $6 billion. Despite the need for gas sensing technologies, a key challenge remains: affordable smart gas sensors that offer both high sensitivity and selectivity, especially in the presence of multiple gases. This project seeks to address this research gap by developing innovative solutions for detecting gases using optical metasurface technology. In this project, an international company will invest in this research to enable these devices to be integrated into a powered air purification respirator that they have developed for the consumer market. This will provide important added value to their product by informing users about the air pollution present at their location. The pathway to end users is clear, benefitting Australia commercially. The research offers social benefits by potentially improving health and environmental benefits through the use of these devices to monitor pollution. It offers economic benefits by reducing the multi-billion-dollar costs associated with air-pollution-related deaths. Finally, the project promotes impact beyond academia through industry partnership to bring the technology into a consumer product.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Rights for Reefs: Legal Personhood for Australia’s Marine Ecosystems. This project aims to investigate the potential for Australia’s major reef systems—the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef, and Great Southern Reef—to be recognised as legal entities through environmental personhood. The project expects to generate new knowledge on rights-based reef governance using an innovative, co-designed approach with Traditional Owners, legal scholars, and reef managers. Expected outcomes include strengthened reef governance models, ecological and social indicators of reef health and harm, and pathways for legal guardianship. This should provide significant benefits, such as enhanced Indigenous leadership, policy innovation, and positioning Australia at the forefront of global ocean governance. Field of research: 4802 - Environmental and Resources Law Australia is home to three globally significant reef systems: Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef, and Great Southern Reef. Each faces growing threats from climate change and biodiversity loss. This project explores the emerging legal concept of environmental personhood—recognising ecosystems as rights-bearing entities—and its potential to transform reef governance in Australia. In collaboration with Traditional Owner groups, marine scientists, legal scholars, and environmental organisations, the project will develop culturally grounded, ecologically informed models for recognising reefs as legal entities with guardianship frameworks. Legal personhood has been successfully established in Aotearoa New Zealand and Ecuador to protect rivers and forests. Recently, in Australia, the Yarra/Birrarung river in Victoria has been legally recognised as a ‘living entity’. The Rights for Reefs project will explore if this model could be applied to Australia’s reefs and if it could support stronger, more adaptive governance frameworks. Outcomes include legal and ecological frameworks, criteria for reef health, and tools for public policy engagement. This research addresses critical national priorities: marine conservation, Indigenous co-governance, and innovative legal responses to environmental decline. It positions Australia as a global leader in nature rights and strengthens our ability to protect reef systems that underpin biodiversity, fisheries, tourism, and cultural identity.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Streamlining Antarctic Icebreaker Operations with Smart Sea Ice Mapping. This project aims to develop new methods to improve how sea ice is mapped and measured using satellite and ship-based images. It will develop and apply advanced image analysis techniques to a large collection of photos from satellites and Australia’s Antarctic ship, the "RSV Nuyina", to generate accurate, easy-to-use sea ice maps. These innovations will support safe and efficient navigation for icebreaker crews, improving the efficiency of scientific missions and logistical operations in the Antarctic. The outcomes will strengthen Australia’s ability to operate in the Southern Ocean. This will help to uphold our national interest and preserve these regions for future generations. Field of research: 3709 - Physical Geography and Environmental Geoscience Australia has sovereignty over 42% of Antarctica and adjacent offshore areas and plays a leading role in Antarctica’s environmental protection and support of safe, sustainable activities. Interpreting sea ice conditions is vital to maintain critical marine operations and environmental monitoring, but current methods using satellite data are limited due to the lack of onsite information about sea ice conditions. In partnership with the Australian Antarctic Division and the Korea Polar Research Institute, this project enhances satellite observation capabilities by leveraging new digital technology on icebreakers, including the Australian “RSV Nuyina”. These technologies will generate onsite information that supports the development of an innovative method for processing satellite images, focusing on sea ice, into user-friendly products like databases and detailed charts, setting a new standard for Antarctic research. This information will boost Australia’s standing in the Antarctic by improving observational capacity, advancing climate research, and enhancing operations for research, logistics, rescue missions, and tourism. Results will be shared with industries through social media, media articles, and international workshops with leading experts. The project will reinforce Australia’s leadership in Antarctic affairs, shaping policies on environmental protection and security, while delivering environmental, economic, and social benefits to the nation.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Advancing Synthetic Biological Intelligence with Carbon-based Interface. This project aims to advance synthetic biological intelligence (SBI) by using 3D brain organoids as the basic organic computational unit, rather than 2D neuronal cultures. Organoids, due to their 3D structure, exhibit dynamics more closely aligned with natural brain function, but require new technologies to interface with them in 3D. Together with our partner CClabs, we aim to develop a carbon-based technology for long-term, high-resolution 3D interfacing with organoids and use it to demonstrate enhanced computational capabilities. Expected outcomes include advanced neural interfaces that diversify existing CCLabs SBI products, strengthen CCLabs' competitive edge, accelerate organoid SBI, and boost Australia’s position in neurotechnology. Field of research: 4003 - Biomedical Engineering Australia can lead the next wave of neurotechnology by transforming tiny 3D brain-like tissues (organoids) into living computers. Yet today’s flat, rigid electrode grids cannot safely penetrate these delicate spheres, leaving most of their electrical “conversation” unheard. Our project fills this critical gap by adapting a soft, flexible carbon-based electrode array invented at University of Melbourne. Designed to reach inside organoids, this array enables neural stimulation and recording with unprecedented fidelity over extended periods. We will partner with CCLabs, a global leader in synthetic biological intelligence. CCLabs brings expertise in culturing, decoding neural networks, machine learning, and a global network eager to commercialise breakthroughs. Together, we will develop a powerful platform to explore organoid intelligence, a vital step in unlocking the full potential of biological computing. This project will deliver economic and social gains for Australia. Domestic manufacturing of organoid-AI devices will create export opportunities, cultivate a skilled workforce and nurture Australian scientific leadership. The platform will provide safer, cheaper tools for drug screening, reduce animal use and accelerate treatment development. Adoption will be driven by co-design with med-techs, licensing, and linking students and start-ups. These initiatives will position Australia at the forefront of biological computing, while creating jobs and an innovation pipeline.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Diamond Membranes for quantum applications . Diamond materials are ideal for quantum technologies and are leading the charge in the new wave of real-world quantum industries. The aim of this project is to develop a reliable source of quantum-active diamond membranes to be used as the basic building block for integrated optical quantum devices. We aim to create delta doped layers in the centre of the membranes which will then be processed by our partners, Quantum Transistors into quantum photonic chips.The expected outcome is the demonstration of a scalable technology for the fabrication of a quantum processor that is widely accessible so that society can benefit from the immense potential of quantum technology. Field of research: 5108 - Quantum Physics The Australian National Quantum Strategy identifies diamond as one of the most promising platforms for applications including quantum computing, quantum electronics, quantum photonics and quantum sensing. Australia has deep expertise in diamond quantum technologies, but has struggled with the integration of these technologies into scalable and commercialization products. The technical challenges include precise location of dopants in high quality diamond membranes and the development of reliable and reproducible fabrication processes. This project aims to overcome these challenges and to integrate advanced diamond materials with advanced photonics to develop an integrated single chip diamond processor which will allow scalability from mainframes to enterprise servers. By partnering with Quantum Transistors, we will address the Australian National Quantum Strategy to grow our quantum industry through development of new IP, partnering with industry to supply advanced materials and generating future leaders for our manufacturing industry. The pathway to impact will be realized by licencing our IP to quantum transistors and using their expertise to develop prototypes that can be used to attract investors to develop advanced fabrication facilities here in Australia.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Advanced motion measurement technology for precision 3D joint movement. Joint function is vital for healthy ageing, yet current methods for high-accuracy joint motion measurement rely on time-intensive and costly medical imaging and image processing, typically confined to specialist laboratories. This project aims to leverage low-radiation dose bi-plane x-ray imaging and advanced data-driven modelling to create a high throughput, accurate, robust and user-friendly precision motion analytics toolkit featuring an intuitive web-interface. This capability will allow joint motion assessment at scale by a non-expert. The technology could aid in future biomarker discovery for movement disorders, surgical planning, joint implant development, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and film and animation for education. Field of research: 4207 - Sports Science and Exercise Physical disorders that prevent people from moving affect one-third of Australians. High accuracy motion of human bones can only be measured from outside the body using information collected from images, but converting large image datasets to joint motion is time-consuming, costly and cannot be produced at scale. Collaborating with Maxoniq, this project will deliver an adaptive analytical toolkit that combines machine learning and biomechanical modelling to compute precision human motion from radiographic images. It can be used by a non-expert with minimal training. The technology will be showcased in seminar series for industry and hospital personnel, in workshops with government authorities, and via social media. It will have economic, social and health benefits to Australia, with a toolkit to support innovative future applications for medical imaging and diagnostic technologies, opening new markets for Australia’s thriving $5.4 billion Medical Technology industry, including orthopaedics and maxillofacial surgery. Precision joint motion measurement at scale will enable new data-driven approaches for early movement disorder pattern recognition and classification. Future research on precision joint motion may benefit Australian healthcare through improved personalised implant development for bones and joints, as well as surgical planning, injury prevention, rehabilitation, exercise therapy, and film and animation for surgical training.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Advanced Optical Interlayers for High-Performance Energy-Harvesting Windows. The world is experiencing climate change due to human activities. This project aims to design, model, construct and test new “power windows” which will be able to generate solar power, while still functioning as windows in buildings. The significance is that such windows could dramatically reduce energy consumption and hence greenhouse gases by enabling city skyscrapers, homes, factories and agricultural greenhouses to generate their own electricity. The expected outcomes of this project will be an advanced, Australian designed and manufactured window, which can be incorporated into buildings worldwide. The key benefits will be the creation of high-value Australian jobs and export opportunities in the green economy. Field of research: 4009 - Electronics, Sensors and Digital Hardware This project addresses the urgent need to develop alternative energy technologies to replace fossil fuels, which are a major contributor to global warming. As the world grapples with climate change driven by human activities, it is widely recognized that reducing carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel use is essential. In Australia, wind farms and solar cell technologies are particularly promising solutions. However, a fundamental challenge in urban environments is the limited roof space available for solar panels. Solar cells are most effective when placed on rooftops to maximize sunlight exposure. But cities could significantly increase their solar energy generation if solar cells were integrated into buildings, especially if the glass walls of large city buildings could also harvest solar energy. In collaboration with the Australian company Clearvue PV, based in Perth, we are developing and testing innovative “power windows” that can generate solar power while still functioning as windows. This hybrid concept is gaining traction, but it requires new materials discovery, optical theory and modelling, as well as optimization of the working prototypes. Beyond the environmental benefits, this project will contribute to the creation of an advanced Australian-designed and manufactured window technology that can be incorporated into building facades, greenhouses, factories and homes worldwide, leading to high-value Australian jobs and export opportunities.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Value chain analysis and governance for nature positive organisations. This project aims to investigate how businesses can understand, report, and reduce impacts on nature. The project will develop a biodiversity impact workflow for organisations to evaluate their nature-related impacts and opportunities, both direct and in supply chains, and characterise transformation pathways for achieving nature positive outcomes. Expected outcomes include new metrics and tools for identifying the nature-related impacts of supply chains, and governance pathways for businesses to become nature positive. This will provide significant benefits to society and businesses by supporting high-integrity certification, transformation of business practices, enhancing competitiveness, and alignment with global biodiversity goals. Field of research: 4104 - Environmental Management Business value chains can have significant environmental impacts, including loss of biodiversity and natural capital that underpins half of global GDP. Impacts can occur as a direct result of business activity (land use change and pollution), because suppliers of goods and services use natural resources, create pollution, and damage habitats, or because consumers of products may pollute and damage environments in the act of consumption. Understanding, disclosing, and acting on these impacts are critical steps in transitioning to nature-positive business. But nature metrics, analytic tools, and governance strategies for business value chains currently lack scientific rigour, creating regulatory, reputational and environmental risk. With state government, industry and consultancy partners, this project will investigate how businesses and governments can better understand, report and reduce impacts on nature across value chains. It will benefit Australian businesses by supporting robust and defensible nature-positive investment and business practice, enhancing competitiveness and sector alignment with national and global biodiversity goals. This project will support the Australian Government’s ambition for nature-positive economic growth. The tools and knowledge co-created with project partners will be publicly available, equipping businesses and governments to understand, disclose and reduce impacts on nature across value chains.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Solar Facade Optimization Using Machine Learning and a Trustworthy Workflow. This project aims to develop a solar façade design optimisation tool to support the uptake of building-integrated photovoltaic as a construction material. Most solar technologies are limited to roofs and current design tools fail to efficiently combine building performance simulations with design optimisation. This study enables the integration of solar technologies into building façades to enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions and improve aesthetics. This will overcome complex trade-offs affecting multiple stakeholders in the supply chain, providing a new approach that balances energy production, costs, safety, and performance. It will yield economic benefits, support sustainability goals, and aid Australia’s transition to net zero. Field of research: 4005 - Civil Engineering As the building sector is a major contributor to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, it urgently needs renewable energy solutions. Solar facades are solar power-generating systems that are seamlessly integrated into the building envelope, such as cladding, walls, and windows, serving both as functional building materials and energy generators. The adoption of solar facades, however, is limited by complex trade-offs requiring a multi-objective optimisation approach to balance energy production, economic viability, safety, and building performance. Existing tools for optimisation have high computational costs and inefficient implementations. This project aims to develop a robust solar facade performance-optimisation model that provides accurate, interpretable decision-making support by integrating advanced machine- learning techniques. It will foster trust by using secure data exchange protocols to protect sensitive design information among stakeholders. The project will generate significant economic benefits by lowering coordination costs and energy expenses for building owners. Environmentally, facilitating renewable energy integration into building designs will support national sustainability targets and aid Australia’s transition to a net zero future. Findings will be shared to stakeholders via seminars, through international networks, and direct collaboration with industry partners. Social media will be used to raise public awareness about this research.

ARC National Competitive Grants · FY 2026 · 2026-01

Advanced Polymers for Heritage Conservation. Polymers play a vital role in stabilizing and protecting cultural heritage as adhesives, coatings, and consolidants. However, most are adapted from other industries, leading to challenges in stability, compatibility across materials, and long-term performance. These limitations necessitate frequent conservation efforts, driving up costs and reducing the lifespan of heritage artifacts. This project brings together conservators and polymer chemists to assess existing conservation polymers, establish performance benchmarks, and develop innovative polymers derived from sustainable biomass. Rigorous testing will identify materials with exceptional stability and tailored performance to meet both current and emerging conservation needs. Field of research: 4302 - Heritage, Archive and Museum Studies This project aims to develop new advanced polymers for use by materials conservation experts in preserving Australia’s cultural, historic and scientific heritage, which is vital to our national identity, education, and tourism industry. Polymers are important in conservation treatment as adhesives, coatings, and binding agents, but are predominately designed for other industries. Such materials present risks, becoming unstable, being incompatible with surrounding materials, and prone to failure. Their production can also have adverse environmental impacts. This ground-breaking, cross-disciplinary project will evaluate the performance of polymers used in conservation, define best-practice benchmarks, and design innovative new materials that will provide superior stability, material compatibility, and environmental sustainability. This will provide commercial and economic benefits for Australia by supporting skilled employment, promoting sustainable material innovation, and reinforcing our leadership in materials conservation. It will also provide major social benefits by protecting culturally significant objects for future generations. Research outcomes will be promoted by protecting the intellectual property generated; these can then be licensed to the materials conservation industry, enabling commercial translation.

GrantConnect (Australian Government grants) · FY 2026 · 2026-01

The brain has a bin; how is it emptied? Category: Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) Research