Grants between $2,000 and $20,000 are available to Australian schools and community organisations, encouraging practical skills, creativity and entrepreneurial thinking.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews announced applications for the Coalition Government’s Maker Projects grants will open on Thursday 8 November.

“The Coalition is providing $1 million in grants through the Maker Projects program, supporting the development of science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills among Australia’s youth,” Minister Andrews said.

“Mathematics and science skills are essential for our economic prosperity and the jobs of the future, and the Coalition is working to encourage more students, particularly girls and young women, to study these subjects.

“We know that 75 per cent of future jobs will require these skills, and this program introduces young people to STEM, allowing them to learn useful skills that can lead to rewarding careers.”

Maker Projects fosters creativity and learning in Australian schools and communities through the creation of maker spaces in schools, such as creative hubs and mobile innovation labs, where students can develop and apply their STEM skills, like problem-solving and creative thinking, in a hands-on way.

Grants are offered through two streams. Stream A is for primary and secondary schools, where they can access grants of between $2,000 to $5,000 to establish maker spaces. While Stream B is for community organisations partnering with industry to run STEM-related events and education activities for Australians under 18. Eligible organisations can apply for funding of between $5,000 and $20,000.

Funding for the program comes from the $29.8 million Inspiring Australia science engagement program, through the Coalition’s National Innovation and Science Agenda, aimed at harnessing science, research and innovation as long-term drivers of Australia’s economic prosperity, jobs and growth.

Maker Projects grants are highly competitive and applications will be assessed in the order they are received. The round will close once the annual allocation of funding is exhausted.

Applications can be submitted online from Thursday 8 November 2018 at midday (AEDT). To find out more and to apply, visit:

• Stream A: https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/inspiring-australia-science-engagement/maker-projects

• Stream B: https://www.business.gov.au/assistance/inspiring-australia-science-engagement/maker-projects-stream-b

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070