Maitri Programs Strengthen Australia–India Relations Through Education and Innovation

Centre for Australia-India Relations Launches Flagship Education and Research Initiatives

The Centre for Australia-India Relations has officially opened applications for its 2025–26 program for the Maitri Scholarships, Maitri Grants, and Maitri Fellowships, all of which are landmark programs that strengthen the Australia-India relationship through education, research, and cultural exchange. The funding for these initiatives is helping in the vital bilateral cooperation across sectors for both countries. The Maitri Scholarships are for high-achieving students from India pursuing higher studies in some form of STEM education at Australian universities. These international scholarships are an entity benefiting from the Australian government scholarship scheme, which covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel. By supporting academic excellence, the program promotes long-term educational partnerships and strengthens the Australia-India education link.

The Maitri Grants are implemented to fund innovative projects in alignment with A New Roadmap for Australia's Economic Engagement with India. In this sense, the grants seek to promote dialogue concerning policy, deepen cultural understanding and improve India business literacy. Since its inception, the Maitri program has supported some 71 projects, each of which has added to the evolution of the strategic relationship between the two countries. The Maitri Fellowships let Australian institutions host academics from Australia or India,promoting collaborative research in mutually interesting areas. These research fellowships also promote knowledge transfer, which supports student exchange programs and helps maintain academic and institutional links to both countries.

All applications for the three programs will be submitted through SmartyGrants and will close on 14 January 2026, at 5:00 PM AEDT. Applicants are encouraged to consult the eligibility guidelines of the Centre and prepare the required documents. All inquiries can be directed to maitrischolars@dfat.gov.au. The Maitri Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships all represent a common commitment to building a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Through investments in education, research, and cultural engagement, the programs continue to elevate the Australia-India partnership.

Editor’s Note:

At a time when global alliances are more and more defined by knowledge sharing and cultural diplomacy, the Centre for Australia-India Relations' Maitri programs represent an astute investment in mutual prosperity. The announcement of applications for the 2025–26 Maitri Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships represents a reaffirmation of support for rich and effective cooperation between Australia and India,two democracies united by values, economic aspiration, and a vision for an Indo-Pacific region in stability. This announcement is not so much an application call but more a reflection of the roles education and research can play as effective diplomatic instruments. From allowing Indian students access to top Australian STEM universities to supporting innovative projects and enabling cross-border academic research, Maitri programs continue to bridge national boundaries.

Skoobuzz encourages every eligible individual and organisation to seize these chances, not so much as a means of self-improvement, but as part of a larger context of collaboration, comprehension, and collective development.

FAQs

1. What are Maitri Scholarships?

The Maitri Scholarships are a prestigious initiative launched by the Australian Government through the Centre for Australia-India Relations. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving Indian students who wish to pursue postgraduate Higher Degree by Research programs, such as a Master’s by Research or PhD, in STEM-related fields at leading Australian universities. The scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, visa charges, and health insurance. By offering comprehensive financial support, the Maitri Scholarships aim to foster academic excellence and strengthen long-term educational ties between Australia and India.

2. How to Apply for Maitri Grants 2025?

Applications for the 2025 Maitri Grants are being accepted through the SmartyGrants platform. Eligible organisations must submit a detailed proposal that outlines how their project will contribute to strengthening Australia–India relations. These projects should align with the strategic goals set out in A New Roadmap for Australia's Economic Engagement with India. Applicants are required to hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), be registered for GST, and provide all necessary documentation as specified in the program guidelines. The deadline for submission is 4 November 2025 at 5:00 PM AEDT. For further assistance, applicants may contact the Centre directly via email.

3. Who Is Eligible for Maitri Fellowships?

The Maitri Fellowships are open to academics from either Australia or India who are nominated by eligible Australian institutions. These fellowships support collaborative research in areas of mutual interest that contribute to the broader Australia–India partnership. Indian applicants must not be citizens or permanent residents of Australia and are required to hold a valid Student (subclass 500) visa. Fellows are also expected to participate in events and activities organised by the Centre for Australia-India Relations or the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, helping to promote bilateral engagement and knowledge exchange.

4. Why Study in Australia with a Maitri Scholarship?

Studying in Australia with a Maitri Scholarship offers a unique opportunity to access world-class education and cutting-edge research facilities in STEM disciplines. The scholarship provides full financial support, allowing students to focus entirely on their academic and professional development. Beyond academics, recipients benefit from exposure to a multicultural environment, opportunities to engage with the Indian diaspora, and participation in bilateral events that enhance leadership and networking skills. This experience not only boosts career prospects but also contributes to building stronger educational and cultural ties between Australia and India.

5. How Do Maitri Grants Strengthen India–Australia Ties?

Maitri Grants play a vital role in enhancing the strategic relationship between India and Australia. By funding innovative projects in areas such as education, culture, public policy, and business, these grants promote mutual understanding and cooperation. They support initiatives that engage diaspora communities, facilitate leadership dialogues, and encourage collaboration in emerging sectors like clean energy, maritime security, and agri-tech. Each funded project contributes to the broader vision outlined in Australia’s economic roadmap with India, reinforcing the shared commitment to a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.