The Maitri Fellowship Program 2026 in Australia is now open for applications. This prestigious, fully funded fellowship opportunity invites Indian researchers, policy experts, and professionals to collaborate with Australian institutions on research that shapes the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
This fellowship strengthens Australia–India academic and diplomatic cooperation, promotes institutional partnerships, and supports research in areas like innovation, business, education, and policy development. It is one of the best funded fellowships in Australia for Indian citizens who aim to make a global impact through research and policy engagement.
Quick Summary of the Fellowship
- Host Country: Australia
- Administered by: Centre for Australia-India Relations
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Nationality: Indian citizens
- Application Deadline: 14 January 2026
About the Maitri Fellowship Program 2026
The Maitri Fellowship is a flagship initiative of the Centre for Australia-India Relations, established by the Australian Government in 2023 to foster long-term bilateral collaboration between the two nations. Through this program, the Centre supports scholars, researchers, and thought leaders who aim to strengthen understanding and cooperation between India and Australia in areas such as policy, economics, technology, education, and cultural exchange.
The Maitri Stories showcase real experiences of fellows and organizations that have benefited from the program, demonstrating its role in building a shared future for the two democracies.
Financial Benefits
The Maitri Fellowship Program 2026 provides full financial support to Australian organizations to host or send policy professionals through three main fellowship streams:
- Inward Fellowships:
- For Indian researchers hosted by Australian institutions.
- Duration: Up to 12 months.
- Outward Fellowships:
- For Australian researchers working in Indian universities.
- Duration: Up to 12 months.
- Two-way Fellowships:
- Joint collaboration between Indian and Australian fellows.
- Duration: Up to 24 months.
This program enhances research capacity, encourages innovation, and strengthens mutual understanding between two of the world’s most dynamic democracies.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed online application form
- Official academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Passport or birth certificate
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
Eligibility Criteria
For Australian Organizations
Only Australian institutions that meet the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) due diligence requirements and have a strong record of engagement with India are eligible to apply.
For Inbound Fellows (Applicants from India)
- Must be citizens of India and not Australian permanent residents.
- Must hold a Temporary Activity Visa (subclass 408) for the duration of the fellowship.
- Should actively participate in events hosted by DFAT, the Centre, or the host organization.
For Outbound Fellows (Applicants from Australia)
- Must be citizens of Australia and not Indian permanent residents.
- Must obtain a valid Indian visa before the start of the fellowship.
- Should participate in academic and public events relevant to their research.
Application Timeline and Deadline
- Application Start Date: 16 September 2025
- Application Deadline: 14 January 2026
- Shortlisting and Contracting Period: January – February 2026
- Program Implementation: Begins May 2026
How to Apply for the Maitri Fellowship Program 2026
Interested candidates must apply online via SmartyGrants.
Before applying, it is essential to read the Grant Guidelines carefully for complete eligibility details and submission instructions.
For official information and application access, visit the Maitri Fellowship Program Official Website.
The Maitri Fellowship Program 2026 is a fully funded fellowship in Australia designed to promote Australia–India research collaboration, offering unique opportunities for Indian and Australian scholars to conduct policy-related research, gain global exposure, and strengthen international cooperation across multiple fields.
