Where is the best place to find government grants in Australia?

The official government websites are the most reliable sources. The federal government's 'business.gov.au' has a comprehensive grant finder tool, and each state government (e.g., Service NSW, Business Victoria) has a dedicated grants and funding section on its website.

What are the most common types of business grants?

Common categories of government support include funding for research and development, export market development, hiring new employees through apprenticeship subsidies, and adopting new technologies or sustainable practices. Not all of it is grant money: research and development support is delivered as a tax offset you claim through your company tax return rather than as a payment. You can check what is open in the grants and programs finder on business.gov.au.

Am I eligible for a business grant?

Eligibility criteria are very strict and vary for each grant. Common requirements include holding an active Australian Business Number (ABN), meeting a minimum annual turnover and operating within a specific industry. You do not always need to be a company: the grants and programs finder on business.gov.au lets you filter by business structure, including sole trader, partnership, trust, company and not for profit. You must read the guidelines for each grant carefully.

Is grant funding a loan?

No, a grant is a non-repayable sum of money provided by the government or another organisation for a specific purpose. Unlike a loan, you do not have to pay it back, provided you meet all the terms and conditions of the funding agreement.

Do I have to pay tax on a government grant?

Yes, most government grants are considered assessable income for tax purposes. This means you must include the grant amount in your business's tax return. You should confirm the specific tax treatment with your accountant.

How can I increase my chances of getting a grant?

To increase your chances, ensure your project perfectly aligns with the grant's objectives, provide a detailed and professional application, clearly explain the economic and community benefits of your project, and submit all required documentation before the deadline.

Business grants in Australia: how to find them and apply

If you're a business in Australia you might be able to take advantage of a grant or other program from federal or state governments.
Businesses can choose from financial support as well as advice and mentorship.
Governments will also provide additional support for businesses affected by natural disasters or other special circumstances.

What grants and schemes are there for businesses?

Businesses can often benefit from schemes like financial grants, loans and non-financial support like consultancy and mentoring.

These might be provided by federal or state governments, community organisations, or financial institutions.

These incentives are often for particular industries or for particular reasons, such as to make energy efficient upgrades.

Businesses can also find additional support in the aftermath of natural disasters such as floods, bushfires and cyclones. Disaster recovery grants are opened by the relevant state or territory as each event occurs, so check the grants and programs finder on business.gov.au and your state or territory website for what is open now.

Am I eligible for a grant or scheme?

There are hundreds of possible grants, schemes and programs so it's important to check within your own state or territory to see if you're eligible for anything.

There are different schemes depending on whether you're a startup or a well-established business. There are also grants and other programs specifically for Aboriginal owned and operated businesses.

What support is there in my state?

Each state will allocate funds as part of their annual budgets to go towards supporting businesses through grants and programs.

You should check your state or territory website for up-to-date opportunities.

If you're an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander hoping to set up a new business or you already run a business, you may be able to find support through Indigenous Business Australia. This includes low cost finance to help with working capital, equipment finance or invoice finance.

Support for businesses after natural disasters

Additional grants are usually put in place after a natural disaster has occurred. The relevant state or territory will usually offer financial assistance, as will financial institutions.

If you've been affected, you should check your state or territory website for information or speak to your business bank.

How can I apply for a grant or scheme?

You can usually apply for a grant or other scheme online.

Search for any grants or schemes you're eligible for. You can do this through your state government website or you can search on business.gov.au. Your business bank may also support you with grant options.
Check eligibility. Make sure you and your business are eligible for the funding or program you're interested in. Be sure of the closing date of applications as well.
Gather documents. You may need to provide business documents as well as proof of eligibility of the scheme.
Apply online. Submit an application through the website and upload any necessary documents.

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Frequently asked questions about business grants and schemes

Common categories of government support include funding for research and development, export market development, hiring new employees through apprenticeship subsidies, and adopting new technologies or sustainable practices. Not all of it is grant money: research and development support is delivered as a tax offset you claim through your company tax return rather than as a payment. You can check what is open in the grants and programs finder on business.gov.au.
Eligibility criteria are very strict and vary for each grant. Common requirements include holding an active Australian Business Number (ABN), meeting a minimum annual turnover and operating within a specific industry. You do not always need to be a company: the grants and programs finder on business.gov.au lets you filter by business structure, including sole trader, partnership, trust, company and not for profit. You must read the guidelines for each grant carefully.

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Rebecca Pike is Finder’s money editor, with over 7 years of experience in mortgages and personal finance. A frequent TV and radio commentator, she frequently appears on Sunrise and 7News, Today and 9News, as well as Sky News, Channel 10 and across radio and print. Rebecca previously served as Editor of Mortgage Professional Australia. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism as well as ASIC-recognised certifications in Tier 1 Generic Knowledge and Tier 2 General Advice Deposit Products, which comply with ASIC guidelines. See full bio

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Business grants

Give your business the boost it deserves using grants and other financial support.

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