What are the key dates for the program?

Applications must be submitted by 5:00 pm on the 7 September 2026. Late applications will only be considered in exceptional circumstances at the Department's discretion.

How much funding is available?

Applicants may apply for grant funding of up to a maximum of $1 million (exclusive of GST).

Is matching funding dollar for dollar?

No. The Program does not require dollar-for-dollar matched funding. However, applicants must provide evidence that they have sufficient funds to complete the project, particularly where project costs exceed the grant funding requested.

Are in-kind contributions allowed?

Yes. In-kind contributions may support project delivery; however, applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient financial resources to complete the project. In-kind contributions should be clearly identified within the project budget.

Are co-contributions sourced from other grant funding allowed?

No. Activities that are already funded, or partially funded, by other Victorian Government funding programs are ineligible. Applicants cannot use other government grants to fund the same project activities proposed under this Program.

How many applications can each organisation submit?

There is no limit to the number of applications each organisation can submit.

Does all of the research need to be conducted in Victoria?

No. However, applicants must demonstrate that project activities will primarily be undertaken in Victoria. Where activities must be conducted elsewhere, applicants must explain why the required expertise, facilities or services are not available in Victoria.

Is collaboration mandatory?

No. Collaboration is not a mandatory eligibility requirement. However, applicants may include project partners where they strengthen the project's capability, expertise, delivery or commercialisation pathway.

Can there be more than two collaborating partners?

Yes. There is no restriction on the number of collaborating partners involved in a project. Applicants should clearly outline the role and contribution of each partner in the project plan. Applicants should note that they are required to confirm that they hold suitable background intellectual property rights and freedom to operate required for the commercialisation of their mRNA candidate.

Can international partners be involved in the project?

Yes. International partners may participate in projects where they contribute expertise, services or capabilities that support the project's objectives.

Can international or interstate companies or researchers apply as the lead applicant?

No. The lead applicant must be an eligible Australian legal entity that operates from a Victorian location, is headquartered in Victoria, or has a Victorian subsidiary. The applicant must also hold an ABN and meet all other eligibility requirements.

Are there exemptions for the requirement to provide evidence of financial records for a due diligence check?

Yes. The following applicants are exempt from a Financial Risk Assessment:

• Entities applying for grants of up to and including $50,000.
• Publicly funded universities and educational institutions.

Applicants seeking more than $50,000 generally must provide financial records as outlined in the Guidelines.

Is there a timeframe within which the project needs to be completed?

Yes. Projects must be completed within three years of commencing. Applicants must provide clear milestones and deliverables demonstrating how the project will progress to a higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL) within this timeframe.

When will I learn the outcome of my application?

Applicants will be notified of the outcome by email. The Department will endeavour to notify applicants within approximately 12 weeks of the application closing date, although timelines may change.

Can I dispute the outcome of my application?

No. Grant funding decisions are at the discretion of the relevant Minister and the Department. Requests for reassessment or overturning a funding decision will not be considered through the complaints process.

Who will own the Intellectual Property Rights of the project?

All intellectual property arising from or associated with funded projects remains with the participating organisation or company. Neither mRNA Victoria nor BioNTech will seek ownership of project intellectual property.

What are the conditions of the grant?

Successful applicants will be required to:

• Enter into a Grant Agreement with the Department.
• Deliver the project and milestones as agreed.
• Submit regular progress and financial reports.
• Participate in Program monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Hold any required insurances.
• Comply with Fair Jobs Code requirements, where applicable.
• Acknowledge Victorian Government support in approved promotional materials.
• Commit to negotiating in the first instance with the State and/or relevant entity regarding manufacturing at the GMP Clinical Manufacturing Facility should the candidate progress to clinical trials.

What if I need further assistance?

More information can be found in the Program Guidelines and on the Program website.

For enquiries regarding the mRNA Victoria Pipeline Program:

Email: mrnavictoria@ecodev.vic.gov.au

For general assistance:

Business Victoria: 13 22 15