Applications closed
The Australian Government announced the $20 million Drought Resilience Innovation Challenges Pilot Program in the 2024–25 Budget.
The program opened for applications on 5 August and closed on 22 October 2025 at 9:00pm (AEDT).
The program adopts a challenge-based approach that supports innovative solutions to address complex and multi-dimensional challenges imposed by drought and climate impacts. It will fund projects that address one of the following challenges:
- Advancing Natural Capital and Biodiversity for Drought Preparedness and Resilience
- Innovating Water Management for Enhanced Drought Resilience in Australian Agriculture
- National Innovation for Enhancing Community Resilience to Drought in Australian Agricultural Regions
Successful applicants will be notified in early-mid 2026, with project activities to start from May 2026.