Defence Ready Initiative (DRI) WA – Round 4

Purpose and Program Overview

The Defence Ready Initiative WA (DRI) Round 4 is a competitive grant program administered by Defence West within the Department of the Premier and Cabinet. Its main objective is to strengthen Western Australian small to medium enterprises (SMEs) operating in the defence sector by improving their capability, capacity, and competitiveness. The program supports businesses to become reliable suppliers of products, services, and works across all defence domains, thereby increasing Western Australia’s contribution to Defence requirements and expanding local industry participation in national and international defence supply chains.

While the total funding pool is not explicitly stated, the program offers grants of up to $20,000, covering 50% of eligible costs, with the flexibility to approve amounts exceeding $20,000 on a case-by-case basis. The initiative plays a broader role in fostering innovation, infrastructure upgrading, workforce development, and strategic business improvements, thus helping WA SMEs engage more effectively in the defence market.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Up to $20,000 (50% of eligible costs; higher amounts may be approved case-by-case)
• Application period: Open from 3 November 2025 to 15 December 2025
• Eligible industries: Western Australian SMEs operating in the defence sector
• Co-contribution: Yes, 50% of eligible project costs
• Location applicability: Western Australia only

Priority Sectors

• The grant explicitly targets SMEs operating in the defence sector in Western Australia.
• No other sectors specified; strictly defence industry-focused.

Funding Scope

• Maximum grant amount: $20,000 (excluding GST), or more upon special approval
• Minimum eligible costs to claim maximum grant: $40,000 (50% match)
• Funding streams include:
  • External expertise (strategic planning, marketing, supply chain facilitation, tender preparation)
  • Internal infrastructure and systems improvements (production, transport, IT, cybersecurity, certification)
  • Training and customer engagement (employee upskilling, trade shows, travel for training)
  • Plant and equipment (new/used machinery, facility upgrades, specialised vehicles, hardware/software)
• Project completion deadline: Activities must be completed and claims submitted by 30 June 2027

Eligibility Criteria

• For-profit SMEs with fewer than 200 employees
• Registered for GST for at least 12 months prior to application
• Hold an Australian Business Number (ABN)
• Operate for at least two years, including one year in Western Australia
• Principal place of business in Western Australia and must remain for 12 months post-application
• Not a past recipient in the same round or financial year
• Only one application per business per round
• Not-for-profits and charities are ineligible

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• External expertise such as strategic/business planning, marketing plans, supply chain facilitation, and government grant application assistance
• Internal infrastructure upgrades including IT systems, production, transport, operational upgrades, cybersecurity
• Certification for national/international standards and pre-qualification requirements
• Training for employees, trade show participation, travel/accommodation for training if necessary
• Purchase of plant and equipment including machinery, facility modifications, specialised vehicles, and computer hardware/software

Assessment Process

• Defence Ready Initiative is a competitive grant assessed by an independent panel after round closure
• Evaluation criteria weighted by:
  • Relevance/need (30%)
  • Level of impact (30%)
  • Capability and capacity (15%)
  • Value for money (15%)
  • Financial viability and risk (10%)

Recent Program Updates

• Round 4 opened on 3 November 2025, closing on 15 December 2025
• No recent changes to guidelines indicated beyond opening dates and deadlines

Application Tips

• Carefully review eligibility criteria before applying
• Prepare key documentation including evidence of GST registration, ABN, and business operating history
• Clearly articulate how the funding will improve business capability and competitiveness in the defence sector
• Use detailed business cases, including financial forecasts and market analysis, to strengthen competitiveness
• Consider engaging accredited grant specialists to assist in application preparation for better chances of success

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting a grant specialist for a personalised eligibility assessment and expert assistance in preparing a strong, compliant and competitive application. Contact us today, and we will connect you with Australia’s best grant specialist, boasting over 35 years of experience in the industry and a 100% success rate. For official guidelines, eligibility details, templates, and submission instructions, visit the WA Government Defence Ready Initiative page.