Dept of Industry, Science and Resources
Round 5 of the WiSE program will fund projects that help reduce barriers for women in STEM education, careers and entrepreneurship.
This year, the Australian Government has made changes to the grants. These changes are in response to evaluation feedback and the Pathway to Diversity in STEM Review.
Changes include:
- Extending the project duration from 3 to 5 years to foster deeper engagement, stronger partnerships and sustainable long-term outcomes. There will be an emphasis on fewer but more substantial projects.
- Raising the minimum grant amount from $500,000 to $1 million and increasing the maximum from $1 million to $2 million. This will allow support for larger-scale, longer-term initiatives that drive systemic change.
- Introducing co-design with the target audience as a criterion in project assessment.
- Increasing support for women at key career transition points, including entry, retention, promotion, career changes and re-entry into the workforce.
Eligible applicants can apply for $1-2 million in funding for projects up to 5 years. Round 5 applications are open from 26 November 2025 to 18 February 2026.
Examples of WiSE round 4 funded projects:
- WILD OnBoard: Provides opportunities for 50 women leaders to attain board positions to boost gender diversity.
- Ignite Female Founders: Gives up to 36 months of business support to 400 women, including those from diverse backgrounds, to build entrepreneurial skills.
- Girls to Graduates: Supports girls in STEM from primary school to university by reducing financial barriers, offering mentorship, and aiding transitions to STEM courses and careers.
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