Traceability Grants Program: Modernising Agricultural Trade and Strengthening Traceability (Australia)

Deadline: 18-Feb-2026

The Traceability Grants Program (TGP) supports Australian agricultural industries to implement interoperable traceability systems under the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023–2033. Round 4 offers AUD 4 million in funding for collaborative projects, with grants ranging from AUD 55,000 to AUD 550,000 and activities running until 30 June 2028.

The Traceability Grants Program (TGP) is a key funding initiative under the Modernising Agricultural Trade – Protecting Australia’s Clean, Green Brand program. It funds collaborative projects that improve how agricultural data is captured, shared, and used to strengthen biosecurity, market access, and consumer trust across Australia’s agricultural supply chains.

Program Overview

TGP supports the implementation of activities aligned with the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023–2033, a long-term national framework designed to modernise traceability systems across agricultural industries.

Core Objectives

• Improve agricultural traceability systems across Australia

• Align processes and technologies for consistent data capture and use

• Support regulators and farmers with better-quality traceability data

• Enable interoperable, industry-wide traceability solutions

• Strengthen awareness through communication and education initiatives

Key Focus Areas

Interoperable Traceability Systems

Projects should support:

• Alignment of traceability processes across supply chains

• Integration of digital tools and data standards

• Interoperability between existing and new traceability technologies

Data Capture and Use

The program prioritises initiatives that:

• Improve accuracy and timeliness of agricultural data

• Enhance data accessibility for farmers and regulators

• Enable evidence-based decision-making and compliance

Communication and Education

Eligible projects may include:

• Industry education and awareness campaigns

• Training materials for farmers and supply chain participants

• Guidance on traceability requirements and benefits

Round 4 Funding Details

Total Funding Available

• AUD 4 million (GST exclusive)

Funding Distribution

• AUD 2 million in 2025–26

• AUD 2 million in 2026–27

Grant Size

• Minimum grant: AUD 55,000

• Maximum grant: AUD 550,000 per project

Project Completion Deadline

• All funded activities must be completed by 30 June 2028

Application Timeline

• Applications open: 13 January 2026

• Applications close: 18 February 2026 at 11:00 pm AEDT

Late submissions will not be accepted.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must meet all mandatory eligibility requirements and fall within one of the approved entity categories.

Mandatory Requirements

Applicants must:

• Hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN)

• Be registered for Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• Have an account with an Australian financial institution

Eligible Entity Types

Applications may be submitted by a single eligible entity or as a joint (consortia) application led by an eligible organisation. Eligible entities include:

• Companies incorporated in Australia

• Companies incorporated by guarantee

• Incorporated trustees on behalf of trusts

• Incorporated associations

• Partnerships

• Commonwealth entities or statutory authorities (corporate or non-corporate)

• State or Territory entities or statutory authorities

• Local government entities

• Not-for-profit organisations

• Publicly funded research organisations

• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Corporations registered under the CATSI Act 2006

Why the Traceability Grants Program Matters

• Protects Australia’s clean, green agricultural reputation

• Strengthens biosecurity and food safety systems

• Improves market access and export confidence

• Reduces compliance burden through smarter data use

• Builds future-ready, digitally enabled agricultural supply chains

How the Program Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Identify a traceability challenge aligned with the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy

2. Form a collaborative project or consortium if required

3. Design an interoperable, scalable traceability solution

4. Develop a proposal outlining activities, outcomes, and budget

5. Submit the application by the stated deadline

6. Successful applicants receive funding and implement approved activities

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proposals not aligned with the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023–2033

• Weak collaboration or lack of industry engagement

• Solutions that are not interoperable or scalable

• Incomplete eligibility documentation

• Unrealistic timelines or budgets

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the total funding available under Round 4?

AUD 4 million (GST exclusive) across two financial years.

What is the grant amount per project?

Grants range from AUD 55,000 to AUD 550,000.

When must projects be completed?

All activities must be completed by 30 June 2028.

Can multiple organisations apply together?

Yes. Joint or consortia applications are permitted, provided the lead organisation is eligible.

Are education and communication projects eligible?

Yes. Communication, training, and awareness initiatives are a key focus area.

Is GST included in the grant funding?

No. Grant amounts are GST exclusive.

Who administers the Traceability Grants Program?

The program is administered by the Australian Government under the Modernising Agricultural Trade initiative.

Conclusion

The Traceability Grants Program Round 4 is a strategic investment in the future of Australia’s agricultural trade. By funding interoperable traceability systems, data-driven solutions, and industry education, TGP strengthens biosecurity, supports farmers and regulators, and protects Australia’s global reputation as a clean, green, and trusted agricultural producer.

For more information, visit National Agriculture Traceability Grants Program.