Momentum building as bid submission nears
As bid submission becomes imminent, we need your support.
Since our last update, the pace behind the Future Freight CRC bid continues to accelerate as we near the opening of the next CRC round (assuming usual timings).
Since our December update we have met with many more partners one-on-one, travelled to regional and metro locations to hold workshops, held a face-to-face researcher workshop and a dedicated online partner update session.
Our team has substantial experience delivering CRC bids and we are very familiar with the process. Many components of the application are already being prepared in the background, and we will continue to work on this.
We are analysing information that we have gathered from all our partners to develop and refine the research program. The result is a program of work that reflects genuine industry need, aligns with government priorities, and tells a compelling national story about the future of freight. We are confident that the research agenda is strong, cohesive and well-supported.
The bid timeline and what we need from you
We expect the CRC funding round to open shortly. Once it does, we will have approximately four to six weeks to finalise and submit the full application. When the round opens we will share the application documents with all partners and host an online session to go through what is needed.
To finalise the bid, we will need confirmation of the proposed investment level of all partners. The amount we request from the CRC Program is linked to demonstrated partner investment and value partners receive from the CRC.
Many of you have already indicated your intended investment in FFCRC and we know others are working through internal approval processes. If you need additional information, briefing materials or discussions with us so you don’t miss the opportunity, please let us know.
At this stage, indicating your investment is not a binding commitment. Formal participation agreements will be executed in mid 2027, following a successful outcome.
For budgeting clarity, no partner funds would be payable until the 2027–28 financial year in the event that the bid is successful.
Note also that partners may be eligible for the R&D Tax Incentive – find out more information here.
The Research Program
We are sharing an updated overview of the proposed research programs and anticipated outputs. This framework has been shaped by partner input and validated with our research community. It captures the practical challenges facing the freight system and translates them into coordinated, nationally significant research activity.
The program is well-developed, however it remains open to refinement as needed for new partners and new ideas. If you see gaps, emerging priorities, or are considering how your organisation fits within the program, now is the time to engage. This is your opportunity to help shape the national freight research agenda.
For more detail on the R&D program and to discuss your organisations objectives please get in touch.
In summary
There is no downside in signalling your intended participation at this point, the real risk is delay and missing out.
Having clarity on individual partner investment levels before submission enables us to maximise value to our partners. Once submitted, the funding envelope is fixed. We want every committed partner to access the full benefits of participation, that is collaborative research, matched funding, capability development and national impact.
The Future Freight CRC represents a once-in-a-cycle opportunity to secure significant Commonwealth investment to accelerate productivity, resilience and sustainability across Australia’s freight system.
As we enter the final phase of bid preparation we appreciate your ongoing support.
We look forward to building the Future Freight CRC together!
Lee-Ann Breger
Bid Lead
lee-ann@futurefreightcrc.com.au
