Australia’s battery industry is set for a major boost, following the launch of a new $400,000 research and development (R&D) grant program by CSIRO.
The R&D grant program, targeting small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) in mining and manufacturing, aims to advance the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of graphite.
“This initiative comes at a crucial time,” CSIRO principal research scientist Adam Best said. “As global supply chains face disruption, countries are looking to diversify their sources of critical minerals.
“Australia is well-positioned to become a key supplier of battery-grade graphite.”
Graphite is considered a critical mineral in Australia and is essential to lithium-ion battery production.
Despite Australia’s abundance of natural graphite resources, its role in global battery supply chains remains limited and CSIRO hopes the new funding program will help change that narrative.
Eligible SMEs can apply for up to $50,000 per project to collaborate with CSIRO scientists and gain access to world-leading research infrastructure.
Projects may focus on graphite spheronisation and purification, electrochemical testing, synthetic alternatives, recycling, or performance and sustainability improvements.
Successful applicants may also tap into CSIRO’s advanced characterisation facilities to evaluate the quality and commercial potential of their graphite resources.
“By bolstering domestic research and production, we can contribute to more resilient supply chains and unlock new economic opportunities,” Best said.
The funding forms part of the Federal Government’s Batteries Research and Development Program, supporting broader initiatives such as the National Battery Strategy, Critical Minerals Strategy, and the ‘Future Made in Australia’ agenda.
Expressions of interest are now open and will remain until March 30, 2026.
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