Friday 24 July 2026

DASSH welcomes the release of the Australian Research Council’s (ARC) National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) Final Report. This is an important step towards a more streamlined, accessible and effective research funding system.

We are particularly encouraged by the proposed reduction of the grants program from 15 to seven schemes, the commitment to reducing administrative burden for researchers and institutions, and stronger support for early-career researchers and Indigenous-led research. These are positive developments, many of which reflect priorities DASSH has advocated for.

Reducing unnecessary complexity in the grants system has the potential to enable more high-quality research, and help build a more sustainable and inclusive national research ecosystem.

While the direction of reform is welcome, the success of these reforms depends on implementation, ongoing investment, and the extent to which the new funding arrangements support capability across Australia’s full research landscape.

As the reforms progress, it will be important that the contribution of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (HASS) research continues to be recognised and supported. HASS disciplines play a critical role in addressing Australia’s most complex challenges, informing public policy, strengthening democratic institutions, preserving and interpreting culture, advancing social cohesion, and ensuring that technological and scientific advances deliver meaningful benefits for communities.

A strong national research system depends on the contributions of all disciplines. The challenges facing Australia require insights that span HASS, Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine. Ensuring that this breadth is reflected within research funding reforms  will be essential to delivering long-term national capability and impact.

DASSH looks forward to continuing to work with the ARC and the Australian Government as the reforms are developed and implemented. We remain committed to ensuring Australia’s research funding system is efficient, equitable and recognises the value of excellent research across the full spectrum of disciplines.