Major Australian Business Funding Programs

In-depth guides to Australia's biggest business support programs. Who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply.

R&D Tax Incentive

Administered by AusIndustry + Australian Tax Office

43.5% refundable tax offset

The R&D Tax Incentive distributes over $4 billion per year, making it Australia's largest business support program. If your business conducts any experimental development, product testing, or technical problem-solving with uncertain outcomes, you may be entitled to a significant tax benefit.

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Export Market Development Grant

Administered by Austrade

Up to 50% of eligible export costs

The Export Market Development Grant (EMDG) reimburses up to 50% of eligible overseas marketing and promotion costs. If your business is actively selling or promoting to international markets, this is one of the most accessible and valuable export programs available.

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Entrepreneurs' Programme

Administered by Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Varies by stream — up to $1M+

The Entrepreneurs' Programme is the Commonwealth Government's primary vehicle for helping established Australian businesses grow and innovate. It includes multiple streams covering business growth advisory, commercialisation, and innovation connections.

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CSIRO Kick-Start

Administered by CSIRO

Matched funding up to $50,000

CSIRO Kick-Start matches your investment dollar-for-dollar to fund a research collaboration with CSIRO scientists. It's designed for startups and SMEs that have a technical challenge that would benefit from world-class research expertise.

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Hiring Incentive / Wage Subsidies

Administered by Department of Employment and Workplace Relations / Workforce Australia

Up to $10,000 per eligible hire

Australian employers can receive up to $10,000 per eligible worker hired through government wage subsidy programs. If you're planning to hire in the next 12 months, checking your eligibility for a wage subsidy should be one of your first steps.

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Australia Council for the Arts Grants

Administered by Australia Council for the Arts

Varies by program — $5,000–$500,000+

The Australia Council for the Arts is the federal government's arts funding body, distributing over $170 million per year across hundreds of programs. Whether you're an individual artist or an incorporated arts organisation, there are programs specifically designed for your career stage.

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CEFC Business Finance

Administered by Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)

Low-interest loans from $250,000

The CEFC channels low-cost capital into clean energy, energy efficiency, and low-emissions technologies. If you're investing in solar, batteries, electric vehicles, industrial efficiency, or clean technology at scale, CEFC finance may provide better terms than commercial lenders.

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Accelerating Commercialisation

Administered by Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Matched funding up to $1,000,000

Accelerating Commercialisation provides matched co-funding of up to $1 million for businesses and entrepreneurs commercialising novel products, processes, or services. It's one of the most significant commercialisation grants available in Australia — and one of the most competitive.

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Digital Solutions

Administered by Department of Industry, Science and Resources

Subsidised advisory — from $44 per session

Digital Solutions provides small businesses with access to low-cost, high-quality digital advice and training. For $44 per session (heavily subsidised by government), you get one-on-one guidance from a certified digital adviser on websites, social media, online sales, cybersecurity, and digital tools.

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JobTrainer / Skills and Training Incentives

Administered by State and Territory Training Authorities / DEWR

Free or heavily subsidised training

Multiple government programs make training more affordable for small businesses — from subsidised certificate courses to free skills assessments and mentoring. The landscape varies by state, but most business owners can access training at a fraction of the commercial cost.

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