CSIRO grant opens new avenues for SMEs in graphite R&D
The $400,000 funding pool is intended to assist companies in refining graphite processing methods and advancing the use of graphite in battery applications.
The CSIRO has launched a new research and development (R&D) grant to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the mining and manufacturing sectors working with graphite. The initiative aims to improve production efficiency and sustainability while enhancing Australia’s position in the battery materials market.
Successful applicants will receive up to $50,000 per project and gain access to CSIRO's research facilities and technical expertise.
Dr Adam Best, Principal Research Scientist at CSIRO, stated that graphite plays an essential role in modern battery technology. “While Australia currently has limited export markets for the specialised type of graphite used in batteries, we are ideally positioned to become a key supplier to the US and other global markets given our significant natural endowment of this critical mineral,” Dr Best said.
The program will fund projects focused on various aspects of graphite research, including spheronisation, purification, and electrochemical testing of natural graphite. Other eligible projects include research into alternative feedstocks for synthetic graphite, improved recycling methods, and innovations to enhance graphite’s performance in battery applications.
Eligible SMEs must be Australian-incorporated businesses with fewer than 200 employees and be registered for GST. Companies must also contribute funding equal to or greater than the amount received through the grant. The grant can be combined with CSIRO’s Kick-Start Program for additional research funding of up to $50,000.
Dr Best noted that the initiative comes at a time when supply chain disruptions have led to increased interest in securing critical minerals. “This initiative comes at a crucial time as global supply chains face disruptions and countries seek to diversify their sources of critical minerals, creating new opportunities for Australian producers.”
In addition to financial support, successful applicants will have access to CSIRO’s characterisation facilities to analyse graphite quality and assess potential processing improvements. Businesses must demonstrate how their project aligns with industry needs and contributes to advancing the graphite sector.
The grant is part of the Federal Government’s Batteries Research and Development Program, delivered by CSIRO with funding from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources. It supports broader initiatives under the National Battery Strategy, Critical Minerals Strategy, and the Future Made in Australia agenda.
Applications close on 30 March 2026, or earlier if funds are exhausted. A free webinar will be held on 13 February 2025 to provide further details on eligibility and the application process.
