If you’re a policy researcher interested in Australia–India relations, the Maitri Fellowships 2026 are now open for new applications. This program supports research collaborations between top Australian and Indian institutions. It helps experts work together on major issues like economy, trade, and geostrategy — strengthening academic and institutional links between both countries.
Maitri Fellowships 2026 Summary
| Host Country | Australia & India |
| Organised by | Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia |
| Duration | Up to 12 months (inward/outward) or 2 years (two-way) |
| Deadline | 14 January 2026 (5:00 pm AEDT) |
| Type | Fully Funded Research Fellowship |
| Eligible Applicants | Australian organisations with bilateral experience |
About the Maitri Fellowships
The Maitri Fellowships aim to support high-level policy researchers from Australia and India who want to study key economic and strategic topics. These fellowships encourage research that benefits both nations and helps shape public understanding of the Australia–India relationship.
The program is designed and managed by DFAT’s Centre for Australia–India Relations and helps fund Australian host organisations to engage Fellows under three main streams.
Also See: World Press Institute Fellowship 2026 | USA (Fully Funded)
Types of Fellowships
Inward Fellowships
- For Indian researchers (Research Fellows, Senior Fellows, Associate Professors, or Principal Research Fellows).
- Fellows travel to Australia for research.
- Duration: Up to 12 months.
Outward Fellowships
- For Australian researchers to work in India.
- Fellows must be engaged with Indian organisations.
- Duration: Up to 12 months.
Two-way Fellowships
- For both an Australian and an Indian Fellow to collaborate on a shared research project.
- Duration: Up to 2 years.
- Fellows work through their respective institutions in both countries.
These programs build long-term cooperation and strengthen research between Australian and Indian organisations.
Fellowship Benefits
The selected organisations and fellows will receive:
- Full funding for project and research costs.
- Institutional and academic collaboration opportunities.
- Support to engage with DFAT and Centre events.
- Access to public policy networks in both countries.
The fellowship encourages real-world research impact and helps build stronger policy dialogue across borders. Also See Wilson Center Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded).
Eligibility Criteria
For Applicant Organisations
Only Australian organisations can submit applications. They must:
- Have ABN registration and relevant accreditation.
- Have experience in the Australia–India bilateral relationship.
- Pass DFAT’s due diligence process, including:
- Sanctions and compliance checks
- Criminal and reputational screening
- Financial and operational assessment
For Fellows
Inbound Fellows (India → Australia):
- Must be Indian citizens (not permanent residents in Australia).
- Must hold a Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) for the research period.
- Should be available for DFAT or Centre events during the fellowship.
Outbound Fellows (Australia → India):
- Must be Australian citizens (not permanent residents in India).
- Must hold a valid visa for the research stay in India.
- Should take part in public and institutional events.
Note:
DFAT and the Centre cannot assist with or fast-track visa processes. Fellows must manage visa applications independently.
Timeline
- 16 September 2025: Applications open
- 14 January 2026 (5:00 pm AEDT): Application deadline
- Jan–Feb 2026: Selection, due diligence, and contracting
- May 2026: Fellowship projects begin
How to Apply For Maitri Fellowships 2026
All applications must be submitted online through SmartyGrants.
- Visit the official application portal: https://dfat.smartygrants.com.au/msfgrantprograms25-26
- Read the Grant Guidelines carefully.
- Complete the online form and upload required documents.
- Submit before the closing date.
For any questions, email: MaitriScholars@dfat.gov.au