The Australian Government has committed $10 million over 4 years to the Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Innovation Fund to support initiatives that create new pathways to employment for First Nations people leaving the justice system.
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About the REAL Innovation Fund
The purpose of the REAL Innovation Fund is to support the delivery of small-scale, community led, innovative projects that build pathways to stable and culturally safe employment opportunities for First Nations people who have been in the justice system.
The projects may aim to address attitudinal and other systemic barriers that impact the opportunities of First Nations people who are or have previously been engaged in the last 2 years, in the justice system to transition into employment. The projects can build on pre-existing programs/initiatives or test new approaches.
By prioritising community leadership and culturally responsive approaches, the REAL Innovation Fund seeks to address systemic barriers and promote long-term economic participation for First Nations individuals who have had contact with the justice system.
How to apply
Grants are now open for eligible organisations to apply for funding under the REAL Innovation Fund. The targeted competitive grants process will remain open until 2 March 2026.
Funding will be allocated through a two stage application process.
- Stage One – Expression of Interest (EOI)
Applicants submit an EOI outlining the key elements of their proposed project. The EOI serves as a concise pitch that enables the department to assess alignment with the objectives and intent of the REAL Innovation Fund. - Stage Two – Full Grant Application
Organisations shortlisted through Stage One will be invited to submit a full grant application. This stage provides the opportunity to expand on the proposal presented in the EOI and supply the detailed information required for final assessment.
Only Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisations and joint consortia led by First Nations organisations are eligible to apply.
Interested organisations are invited to apply for the funding via GrantConnect by 9 pm (AEST) on Monday 2 March 2026.
Consultations
As part of stakeholder consultations on the REAL Program in 2024, the department consulted on the REAL Innovation Fund. Draft Grant Opportunity Guidelines were released for feedback on 7 July 2025. Submissions closed on 25 July 2025.
Aligning with the feedback received, the department will consider collaborative projects, led by Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and other First Nations organisations, that supports innovative, culturally safe, small initiatives/projects.