Australia-France Indo-Pacific Studies Program (AFIPSP)

Overview

The AFIPSP is a new initiative under the Australia-France Roadmap, which was announced in December 2023. The Roadmap establishes a new and ambitious chapter in the bilateral relationship. Its three pillars – Defence and Security, Resilience and Climate Action, Education and Culture – advance our national and international interests. This open competitive grant opportunity (up to $896,000 over three financial years from 2024-25 to 2026-27) will allow DFAT to select a provider to deliver the AFIPSP. The successful applicant (an Australian university or think tank) will be required to enter into a grant agreement and participate in monitoring and evaluation requirements, including quarterly updates and End of Financial Year Reports to DFAT.The objectives of the AFIPSP are to:  * strengthen Australia-France strategic policy engagement* facilitate deeper links between French, Australian, and Indo-Pacific scholars, students, and policy makers* develop high quality strategic research and distinctive perspectives on trends in the Indo-Pacific shaping the region and the globe, and draw insights with tangible value for Australian policymakers, scholars, and the public* promote greater shared understanding of Pacific issues and the main challenges of the region, including climate change and environmental issues. The intended outcomes/deliverables of the AFIPSP are: * Track 1.5 (officials and academics) and Track 2 (academics/think-tanks) strategic dialogues, bilaterally and potentially with additional partner countries and institutions (including financial support for academics, policy practitioners and thought leaders attending); * A visiting fellows program (including financial support for academics, policy practitioners and thought leaders attending); * Joint academic projects and exchanges funded through Indo-Pacific Strategic Environment Academic Grants;  * Joint academic projects and exchanges funded through Pacific Social Sciences Academic Grants.