The Maitri Scholarships and Fellowships Grant Programs, administered by the Centre for Australia–India Relations (CAIR), are now open for applications for the 2025–26 academic year. This initiative is designed to build enduring connections between Australian and Indian researchers, institutions, and policy communities by funding exchanges that address pressing global challenges.

The Maitri Fellowships empower top-tier policy researchers, academics, and professionals to engage in collaborative research and policy development that deepens bilateral understanding and drives innovation in areas of mutual interest such as economics, diplomacy, geostrategy, and sustainable development.

About the Maitri Fellowship Program

The Maitri Fellowships are a cornerstone of CAIR’s efforts to enhance the Australia–India partnership through academic and institutional collaboration. The program provides fully funded research opportunities for both Australian and Indian professionals, supporting them to undertake research secondments, exchange visits, and long-term collaborations.

By fostering mutual learning and promoting joint projects, the program enhances dialogue between the two nations on critical global issues—from climate resilience and digital transformation to security cooperation and economic policy.

Fellowship Streams

The 2025–26 Maitri Fellowship Program offers three distinct streams of funding, enabling flexibility and depth in collaboration:

1. Inward Fellowships
   These fellowships support Indian researchers and policy professionals to work with Australian organizations for up to 12 months. Participants gain access to Australia’s leading research institutions, think tanks, and public policy organizations, where they can engage in advanced research and institutional exchange.

2. Outward Fellowships
   Designed for Australian researchers, this stream funds placements of up to 12 months in Indian universities, policy institutes, and research bodies. Fellows will work alongside Indian counterparts to advance shared research priorities and explore emerging challenges in regional and global governance.

3. Two-way Fellowships
   The most collaborative of the three, this stream supports joint research exchanges for up to two years, pairing one Indian and one Australian fellow. The program encourages long-term cooperation on strategic policy areas that require sustained engagement.

Program Objectives

The Maitri Scholarships and Fellowships seek to:

• Strengthen institutional and academic linkages between Australia and India.

• Facilitate research that informs evidence-based policymaking.

• Support scholars and practitioners addressing key issues such as climate policy, digital inclusion, trade, public health, and security.

• Encourage mutual understanding and sustained engagement between the two nations.

Through these exchanges, the program contributes to building a resilient and innovative research ecosystem that enhances both countries’ strategic and developmental goals.

Funding and Support

Successful applicants receive full funding, which includes research-related expenses, travel, accommodation, and institutional fees. The program is designed to remove financial barriers and allow fellows to focus on producing high-quality research and impactful policy outcomes.

Participants will also have access to CAIR’s professional networks, mentorship, and opportunities to engage with policymakers and thought leaders from both countries.

Application Details

Application Deadline:
5:00 PM (AEDT) on 14 January 2026

Application Portal:
All applications must be submitted online. Click here for more details.

Contact Information:
For queries about guidelines, eligibility, or technical issues, applicants can email maitrischolars@dfat.gov.au, quoting their submission number.

Key Notes for Applicants:

• The online form allows applicants to save progress and return to complete submissions later.

• Attachments (such as proposals, CVs, and letters of support) must be uploaded in PDF format.

• Only one submission per applicant or institution is accepted.

• Confirmation of submission will be sent by email once the application is successfully lodged.

CAIR recommends applicants review the Help Guide for Applicants and FAQ section before submission to ensure compliance with program requirements.

About the Centre for Australia–India Relations (CAIR)

CAIR plays a pivotal role in advancing the Australia–India relationship by funding initiatives that foster cooperation in education, innovation, and diplomacy. The Maitri Fellowships exemplify CAIR’s mission to deepen bilateral ties through shared knowledge, research excellence, and intercultural understanding.

By investing in the next generation of researchers and thought leaders, the Maitri Program contributes to a sustainable and prosperous partnership between Australia and India—one that is grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and forward-looking collaboration.

Visit here for more opportunities.