ADSUN Innovation Grant: Working Under Water

The Adelaide-based Defence Innovation Network (DIN) and Melbourne-based Defence Science Institute (DSI)are calling for collaborative proposals on Working Under Water for $400,000 Innovation Grants.

The proposals must be led by Australian Defence Science University Network (ADSUN) member universities across the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria and the intent of this grants program is to enhance Australia’s Undersea Warfare Capabilities, a technology development priority under AUKUS Pillar II.

Applications are due at 5 PM on 11 August 2025.

Up to $400,000 per proposal is available to support innovative projects that will contribute to sovereign capabilities across one of Defence’s priority areas.

The challenge is titled Working Under Water- bringing advances in sensing, communication, navigation and power for autonomous platforms to operate confidently in the subsea environment. Proposals need to focus on:

• Providing increased awareness of objects and obstacles under the oceans through novel sensing methods
• Improving long-distance, secure underwater communications
• Developing strategies and sensors for sub-surface navigation (GPS denied)
• Extending range and operational capability through application of novel power generation, energy harvesting, energy storage/transfer, and propulsion

An information seminar will  be held online on 10 July 2025. Registration closes on 9 July 2025. Applicants should register via this link.

Applications are due at 5 PM on 11 August 2025.