How to Explore Government Grants in Australia: The Ultimate Guide for Startup Founders

If you're building a business in Australia, I highly recommend you explore government grants as they can offer a powerful boost to your business.

They’re non-dilutive, often underutilised, and can help fund your early growth without giving up equity.

Yet most founders either don’t know these grants exist or assume they won’t qualify.

I've seen founders unlock tens of thousands in funding simply by applying at the right time with the right documents. This guide breaks it down step by step so you don’t leave financial opportunities on the table.

Grants are an opportunity to fund your early growth without giving up equity.

What Are Government Grants and Why They Matter

Government grants are funds provided by local, state, or federal governments to support businesses in key industries, innovation, employment, and regional growth.

Examples include:

• Startup grants to get new businesses off the ground

• Export market development grants (EMDG) to support international growth

• R&D tax incentives for innovation and product development

• Hiring or training subsidies to grow your team

• Industry-specific grants (agriculture, manufacturing, tech, etc.)

In Australia, grants can come from federal departments (e.g. AusIndustry), state governments, or local councils. Some require matching contributions; others don’t.

Why Exploring Grants Matters for Founders

• Non-dilutive capital: Keep your equity and still get funds to grow

• Cash flow boost: Helps with early marketing, R&D, and hiring costs

• Credibility: Being awarded a grant adds legitimacy to your startup

• Fuel for scaling: Grants can subsidise major milestones like launching a product or hiring staff

Real Talk: We've worked with founders who used $25k grants to test new products, then raised capital with better traction. It's often your most founder-friendly funding.

What You Need Before You Start

• An ABN and registered business

• A lean business plan or pitch deck

• Quotes or estimates for the use of funds

• Financial records (if trading already)

• Business mission statement, project/funding proposal, budget overview, market research

• Time to complete a detailed application

Mentor Tip: Set up a "grants folder" on your drive with all standard docs ready. It'll save hours every time you apply.

How to Explore Government Grants in Australia:

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Find the Right Grants

• Search federal sites like GrantConnect.gov.au or business.gov.au

• Explore your state’s business grants portal (e.g. Business Victoria, NSW Small Business)

• Look at industry-specific programs via your trade body

• Subscribe to grant alerts via GrantGuru or AusIndustry newsletters

Step 2: Check Eligibility and Criteria

• Read the full grant guidelines carefully

• Make sure your industry, location, and size are eligible

• Note submission deadlines and application requirements

• Review funding limits and co-contribution rules (if any)

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

• Business overview (ABN, structure, mission)

• Project or funding proposal

• Budget breakdown and timelines

• Quotes, market research, or supporting docs

Step 4: Submit the Application

• Register on the grant portal (if required)

• Upload docs in correct format (PDF, Word)

• Use clear, outcome-focused language

• Double check your budget and milestones

Step 5: Track, Follow Up and Report

• Monitor your inbox for updates

• If awarded, keep receipts and track usage

• Submit required milestone or acquittal reports

Cost of Exploring and Applying for Grants

Tool or Service	Cost Range
GrantGuru Subscription	Free – $300/year
Grant Writer (freelancer)	~$500 - $5000+
DIY Grant Application	Free (time investment)

Money-Saving Tip: Many small grants can be done in-house with a solid plan and copy. Save external help for large-scale funding.

Common Mistakes Founders Make

Skipping small grants

Many skip $5k-$10k grants thinking they're not worth it. But they add up, fast.

Using one generic application for all grants

Tailor your submission. Every grant wants specific outcomes.

Missing deadlines

Some close after 50 applicants. Others have hard dates. Stay alert.

Ignoring acquittal requirements

Poor tracking = future ineligibility.

Waiting too long

Many grants only fund pre-approved expenses. Start looking early.

What to Do Right Now

✅ Create a free GrantConnect.gov.au account and search for open programs

✅ Book a consult with Noize to explore all the initial funding strategies that are are suitable for your business [Noize.com.au]

✅ Get the StartUp Deck to map your growth and funding plan as you build your startup [thestartupdeck.com]

FAQs

Can I apply for grants before launching my business?

Some programs support pre-launch stages, especially innovation or planning grants.

What are my chances of getting approved?

Depends on alignment, timing, and quality. Well-matched, clear applications do well.

Can I apply for more than one grant?

Yes. Many founders build a stack of micro-grants over time.

What if I get rejected?

You can often reapply next round. Ask for feedback.

Are grants taxable?

Most are, unless specifically exempt. Check with your accountant.