G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
4 May 2018  
(18-2751) Page: 1/109 
Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  Original: English  
 
SUBSIDIES  
NEW AND FULL NOTIFIC ATION PURSUANT TO AR TICLE XVI:1  
OF THE GATT 1994 AND  ARTICLE 25 OF THE AG REEMENT  
ON SUBSIDIES AND COU NTERVAILING MEASURES  
AUSTRALIA  
The following communication, dated 16 April 2018, is being circulated at the request of the 
Delegation of Australia.  
_______________  
The following notification provides details on federal programs and state/territory programs for 
financial years 2015/16  and 2016/17  (the financial year being from 1 July to 30 June). In some 
cases, it is arguable whether these programs are specific within the meaning of the Agreement on 
Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.  
Programs are included for the sake of transparency and without pr ejudice to the legal status, 
effects or nature of the measures under the WTO Agreement.  
 
Contents  
FEDERAL PROGRAMMES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 5 
1   AGRICULTURAL PROGRAM MES ................................ ................................ ....................  5 
1.1   Pest Animal and Weed Management in Drought -affected Areas  ................................ .........  5 
1.2   Farm Business Concessional Loans Scheme 2016 –17 ................................ .......................  5 
1.3   Dairy Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme  ................................ ................................ ... 6 
1.4   Drought Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme  ................................ ...............................  7 
1.5   Drought Concessional Loans Scheme  ................................ ................................ .............  8 
1.6   Farm Household Allowance  ................................ ................................ ...........................  9 
1.7   Managing Farm Risk Program  ................................ ................................ ....................... 10 
2   ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRA MMES  ................................ ................................ ...............  11 
2.1   Sustainable Rural Water Use and Infrastructure Program  ................................ ................. 11 
2.2   Water for the Environment Special Account  ................................ ................................ ...19 
3   FISHERIES PROGRAMMES  ................................ ................................ .........................  21 
3.1   Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Investment funding ............................... 21 
4   INNOVATION  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  22 
4.1   Entrepre neurs' Programme - Accelerating Commercialisation  ................................ ........... 22 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4.2   Entrepreneurs' Programme – Business Management  ................................ ....................... 23 
4.3   Entrepreneurs' Programme – Innovation Connections  ................................ ..................... 24 
4.4   Entrepreneurs' Programme – Incubator Support initiative  ................................ ................ 26 
4.5   Industry Growth Centres Initiative  ................................ ................................ ................ 28 
4.6   Centre for Defence Industry Capability (CDIC) Capability Improvement Grants  .................. 29 
4.7   Quantum Computing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...30 
4.8   Business Research and Innovation Initiative  ................................ ................................ ..31 
5   MANUFACTURING  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 32 
5.1   Manufacturing Transition Programme  ................................ ................................ ............ 32 
5.2   Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund  ................................ ................................ .......... 33 
6   PASSENGER MOTOR VEHI CLES  ................................ ................................ ..................  34 
6.1   Automotive Diversification Programme (ADP)  ................................ ................................ .34 
6.2   Automotive New Markets Program  ................................ ................................ ................ 35 
6.3   Automotive Transformation Scheme (ATS)  ................................ ................................ ....36 
6.4   Business Capability Support Program  ................................ ................................ ............ 37 
6.5   Skills and Training Initiative  ................................ ................................ ......................... 38 
6.6   Toyota Major Facelift Vehicle and Supplier Grant  ................................ ............................ 39 
7   REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT  ................................ ................................ .........................  39 
7.1   Australian Government Innovation and Investment Fund - Tasmania  ................................ 39 
7.2   Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund  ................................ ........................... 40 
7.3   Growth Fund - Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme  ............................. 41 
7.4   Melbourne's North Innovation and Investment Fund  ................................ ....................... 42 
7.5   Tasmanian Jobs and Growt h Plan  ................................ ................................ ................. 43 
8   ALUMINIUM  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  44 
8.1   Portland Aluminium Smelter Assistance Program  ................................ ............................ 44 
9   TEXTILES, CLOTHING &  FOOTWEAR  ................................ ................................ ..........  44 
9.1   Clothing and Household Textile (Building Innovative Capability ) Scheme 
(BIC Scheme)  ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 44 
9.2   Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) Small Business Program  ................................ .......... 45 
10   VOCATIONAL TRAINING  ................................ ................................ ..........................  46 
10.1   Industry Skills Fund  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..46 
SUB-FEDERAL PROGRAMMES  ................................ ................................ .........................  47 
11   AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL T ERRITORY ................................ ................................ ..........  47 
11.1   Innovation Connect  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...47 
11.2   CBR Innovation Development Fund  ................................ ................................ ............. 48 
11.3   Screen Production Fund  ................................ ................................ ............................. 49 
12   NEW SOUTH WALES  ................................ ................................ ................................  50 
12.1   Startup Support Program (Jobs for NSW)  ................................ ................................ .....50 
12.2   Regional Solutions Pilot (Jobs for NSW)  ................................ ................................ .......51 
12.3   Jobs for NSW Loan Products  ................................ ................................ ....................... 52 
12.4   Jobs for Loan Guarantee  ................................ ................................ ............................ 53 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  12.5   Jobs Action Plan Payroll Tax Rebate Scheme  ................................ ................................ 54 
12.6   StudyNSW Partner Projects  ................................ ................................ ........................ 55 
12.7   Legacy Programs  ................................ ................................ ................................ ......56 
12.8   Knowledge Hubs Initiative  ................................ ................................ .......................... 57 
13   NORTHERN TERRITORY  ................................ ................................ ...........................  57 
13.1   Industry and Business Assistance  ................................ ................................ ............... 57 
13.2   Business Innovation Support Initiatives  ................................ ................................ .......58 
14   QUEENSLAND  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........  59 
14.1   Future Resources Program  ................................ ................................ ......................... 59 
14.2   Guarantee to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd  ................................ ................... 60 
14.3   Life Sciences Queensland (LSQ) Project Delivery 2011 - 2019 ................................ ........ 61 
14.4   Medical Research Commercialisation Fund (MRCF)  ................................ ........................ 62 
14.5   Made In Queensland Grants S cheme  ................................ ................................ ........... 62 
14.6   Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund  ................................ .............................. 64 
14.7   Fisheries: Net Buyback Scheme, Settlement Scheme and Impact Alleviation 
Scheme  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 65 
14.8   Primary Industry Productivity Enhancement Scheme (Pipes)  ................................ .......... 67 
15   SOUTH AUSTRALIA  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 68 
15.1   South East Forestry Partnerships Program (SEFPP)  ................................ ....................... 68 
15.2   Supporting Brands of Our Key Regions Grant Funding Program  ................................ ......69 
15.3   Building South Australia's Premium Food and Wine Credentials Grant Program  ................. 70 
15.4   Innovation Voucher Program  ................................ ................................ ...................... 71 
15.5   Business Transformation Voucher Program (BTVP)  ................................ ........................ 72 
15.6   Automotive Supplier Diversification Program (ASDP)  ................................ ..................... 72 
15.7   Small Business Development Fund (SBDF)  ................................ ................................ ...73 
15.8   Premiers Research and Industry Fund (PRIF)  ................................ ............................... 74 
15.9   Economic Investment Fund  ................................ ................................ ........................ 75 
15.10    South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program  ................................ .................. 75 
15.11    Future Jobs Fund  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....78 
15.12   Job Accelerator Grant Scheme  ................................ ................................ .................. 79 
16   TASMANIA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  80 
16.1   Investment Attraction and Industry Development Program  ................................ ............ 80 
16.2   Tasmanian Government Innovation and Investment Fund  ................................ .............. 81 
16.3   Intensive Animal Farming In dustry Development  ................................ .......................... 81 
16.4   Wood and Fibre Processing Innovation Program  ................................ ............................ 82 
16.5   Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome Recovery Concessional Loan Scheme  .......................... 83 
16.6   Vineyard and Orchard Expansion Program  ................................ ................................ ...84 
16.7   AgriGrowth Concessional Loan Scheme  ................................ ................................ ........ 85 
16.8   Advanced Manufacturing Transition Fund  ................................ ................................ .....86 
16.9   Advanced Manufacturing Market Expansion Program  ................................ ..................... 86 
17   VICTORIA  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  87 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  17.1   Investm ent Attraction and Assistance Program (IAAP) and the Investment Support 
Program (ISP)  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 87 
17.2   Grow Your Business  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..88 
17.3   Small Business SuccessMap  ................................ ................................ ....................... 89 
17.4   Sector Growth Program  ................................ ................................ ............................. 89 
17.5   Future Industries Manufacturing Program  ................................ ................................ ....90 
17.6   Local Industry Fund for Transition  ................................ ................................ ............... 91 
17.7   Automotive Supply Chain Transition Program (ADCTP)  ................................ .................. 92 
17.8   New Energy Jobs Fund  ................................ ................................ .............................. 92 
17.9   Boosting Business Productivity  ................................ ................................ ................... 93 
17.10    Regional Jobs & Infrastructure Fund (RJIF)  ................................ ................................ .94 
17.11    Regional Tourism & Infrastructure Fund ................................ ................................ .....95 
17.12    Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund  ................................ ................................ ..96 
17.13    Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program  ................................ ......................... 97 
18   WESTERN A USTRALIA  ................................ ................................ .............................  98 
18.1   Industry Facilitation and Support Program  ................................ ................................ ...98 
18.2   Regional Buy Local Initiative  ................................ ................................ ...................... 99 
18.3   Marine Stewardship Council Certification  ................................ ................................ .... 100 
18.4   Financial Support Payments  ................................ ................................ .....................  101 
18.5   Farm Debt Mediation Scheme  ................................ ................................ ...................  102 
18.6   Agricultural Sciences Research and Development Fund  ................................ ................  103 
18.7   Magnetite Financial Assistance Program  ................................ ................................ ..... 104 
18.8   Financial Assistance for Junior Iron Ore Miners  ................................ ...........................  105 
18.9   The Co -funded Exploration Drilling Program  ................................ ...............................  105 
18.10    Fremantle Container Rail Subsidy  ................................ ................................ ............  106 
18.11    Payroll Tax Exemption for Wages Paid to Apprentices and Trainees  .............................  107 
18.12    Payroll Tax Indigenous Wage Rebate  ................................ ................................ ....... 108 
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  FEDERAL PROGRAMMES  
1  AGRICULTURAL PROGRAM MES 
1.1  Pest Animal and Weed Management in Drought -affected Areas  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Pest Animal and Weed Management in Drought -affected Areas . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government is providing $25 million in funding over four years from 201 5-16 
to 2018-19. The funding is being provided to states to administer programs and projects that will 
improve pest animal and weed management in drought -affected areas. The funding will support 
activities that will reduce weed incursions and reduce total grazing pressure and predation of 
livestock due to pest animals.   
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
On 9 May 2015 this measure was announced. Formal arrangements for administering the funding 
is through a Project Agreement between the Commonwea lth and relevant states with the authority 
under the Intergovernmental Agreement on Federal Financial Relations . The Project Agreement is 
in effect from  1 July 2015 to 30 June 2019.  Although they are not required to do so some states 
have decided to provide funding for their programs.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Payments are made from The Treasury to relevant state treasuries. Funds are then dispersed by 
the states through their pest animal and weed management programs to successful applicants. 
Successful applicants receive a grant to carry out their pest animal and weed management 
activities and projects.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Landhold ers must apply for grants through state based pest animal and weed management 
programs. Grants are only provided to landholders in areas experiencing extended dry conditions.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Total expenditure was $15 million in 2015 -16 and $4 million in 2016 -17. 
 
8. Duration  
 
2015-16 to 2018 -19 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.2  Farm Business Concessional Loans Scheme 2016 –17 
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Farm Business Concessional Loans Scheme 2016 –17. 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2016 –17. 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Farm Business Concessional Loans Scheme 2016 –17 allowed eligible farm businesses to 
access two types of loans —Drought Assistance Concessional Loans and Dairy Recovery 
Concessional Loans.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The assistance was delivered through the Northern Territory and state government agencie s. Loan 
agreements and service level agreements, which underpinned the delivery of the scheme in each 
jurisdiction, were agreed between the Commonwealth and each state and the Northern Territory 
governments.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Concessional interest rate of 3.09 per cent offered which is below commercial interest rates. 
The interest rate is reviewed and, if necessary, revised every six months.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The drought assistance aspect of the schem e assisted eligible farm businesses in need of financial 
assistance to manage, recover from and prepare for droughts and maintain prospects for long 
term commercial viability. The dairy recovery aspect of the scheme  assisted commercially viable 
dairy farm businesses through the short -term crisis caused by the May 2016 decisions of Murray 
Goulburn, Fonterra and National Dairy Products to reduce farm gate milk prices. Loans were 
delivered through relevant state government agencies.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per un it 
 
Loans were available to a maximum of AUD1 million  and had a loan term of 10 years, with interest 
only repayments for the first five years. The farm business must repay or refinance the remaining 
loan balance at the end of the loan term.  
 
As at 30 June 2017 the value of loans approved under the Farm Business Concessional Loans 
Scheme 2016/17 was AUD90,035,801.68.  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 November 2016 to 30 June 2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.3  Dairy Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Dairy Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2015/2016 and 2016/17 . 
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  3. Policy ob jective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Dairy Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme assisted commercially viable dairy farm 
businesses through the short -term crisis caused by the May 2016 decisions of Murray Goulburn, 
Fonterra and National Dairy Products t o reduce farm gate milk prices.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The assistance was delivered through the state government agencies. Loan agreements and 
service level agreements, which underpinned the delivery of the scheme in each jurisdiction, were 
agreed between the Commonwealth and each state government.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Concessional interest rate of 2.69 per cent offered which is below commercial interest rates.  
The interest rate is reviewed and, if necessary, revised ev ery six months.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Farm businesses that experience financial difficulty as a result of the May 2016 retrospective milk 
price reduction  were eligible for concessional loans for debt restructuring, new debt for operating 
expenses or productivity enhancement activities, or a combination of these. Loans were delivered 
through relevant state government agencies.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Loans were available to a maximum of AUD1 million  and had a loan term of 10 years, with interest 
only repayments for the first five years. The farm business must repay or refinance the remaining 
loan balance at the end of the loan term.  
 
As at 30 June 2017 the value of loans approved under th e Dairy Recovery Concessional Loans 
Scheme was AUD61,922,638,37.  
 
8. Duration  
 
22 June 2016 to 31 October 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.4  Drought Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Drought Recovery Concessional Loans Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 .  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The scheme provided assistance to eligible farm businesses to return to productivity and 
profitability after drought.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
This assistance was delivered through the Northern Territory and state government agencies.  Loan 
agreements and service level agreements —which underpinned the delivery of the scheme in each 
jurisdiction —were agreed between the Commonwealth and each of the state and the Northern 
Territory governments.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Concessional interest  rate of 2.69 per cent offered which is below commercial interest rates. 
The interest rate is reviewed and, if necessary, revised every six months.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Farm businesses that experienced financial difficulty as a resu lt of unprecedented droughts were 
eligible for concessional loans through their relevant state and Northern territory government 
agencies.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Loans were available to a maximum of AUD1 million  and had a loan term of 10 years, with interest 
only repayments for the first five years. The farm business must repay or refinance the remaining 
loan balance at the end of the loan term.  
 
As at 30 June 2017 the value of loans approved under the Drought Concessional Loans Scheme 
was AUD40, 471,463.53.  
 
8. Duration  
 
29 January 2015 to 31 October 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.5  Drought Concessional Loans Scheme  
1. Title of the  subsidy  
 
Drought Concessional Loans Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Drought Concessional Loans Scheme assisted eligible farming businesses to recov er from 
drought and return to viability in the long term.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
This assistance was delivered through the Northern Territory and state government agencies.  Loan 
agreements and service level agreements, which underpinned the delivery of the scheme in each 
jurisdiction, were agreed between the Commonwealth and each state and the Northern Territory 
governments.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Concessional interest rate of 3.01 per cent offered which is below commercial interest rates. The 
interest rate is reviewed and, if necessary, revised every six months.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Farm businesses that experienced financial difficulty as a result of drought were eligible for 
concessional loans for de bt restructuring and operating expenses as well as drought recovery and 
preparedness activities. Loans were delivered through relevant state and Northern territory 
government agencies.  
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Loans were available to a maximum of AUD 1 million  and had a loan term of five years, with a 
concessional interest rate period of five years.  The farm business must repay or refinance the 
remaining loan balance at the end of the loan term.  
 
As at 30 June 2017 the value of loans approved under the  Drought Concessional Loans Scheme 
was AUD256,993,218.3  
 
8. Duration  
 
6 June 2014 to 30 June 2017 (Scheme closed in all jurisdictions except WA on 31 October 2016).  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data per mitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.6  Farm Household Allowance  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Farm Household Allowance (FHA) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2014/2015, 2015/2016, and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or  purpose of the subsidy  
 
FHA is a time limited program (up to three cumulative years) that helps farmers and farmers ' 
partners in hardship cope with financial pressures.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is authorised under the Farm Household Support Act 2014 . It replaced the Exceptional 
Circumstances Relief Payment.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy comprises:  
 income support for up to three cumulative years  
 one-on-one case support  
 an activity supplement for planning and training for long -term financial improvements  
 access to ancillary benefits, including a healthcare card, rent assistance, and 
pharmaceutical, telephone and remote area allowances.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The subsidy is available to elig ible farmers and farmers ' partners . The income support component 
is provided through fortnightly electronic funds transfers to the FHA recipient 's nominated bank 
account.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The level of subsidy mirrors that for the Newstart  and Youth Allowance programs, however the 
rate payable depends on the recipient 's circumstances, for example if the recipient is single or 
partnered or has children. As at December 2017, the maximum total payment per fortnight a 
recipient can receive is $ 584.20—this is for a single recipient under 22 with a child or children. It is 
possible a recipient may receive less than the maximum amount payable per fortnight due to other 
factors, such as their level of off -farm income.  
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  8. Duration  
 
FHA has been ope rating since 1 July 2014.  It is an open -ended program.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
1.7  Managing Farm Risk Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Managing Farm Risk Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Managing Farm Risk Program allows eligible farm businesses to access a one -off rebate for 
costs incurred obtaining independent and professional advice to apply for a new insurance policy 
that assists with the management of drought and other production and market risks.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The (2015) Agricultural Competi tiveness White Paper  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
One-off rebates for 50 per cent of the costs incurred by the farm business (GST exclusive), up to a 
maximum of AUD2,500.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Rebates are provided through the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources to eligible farm 
businesses who have incurred costs in obtaining independent and professional advice to apply for a 
new insurance policy.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Four rebates were paid in 2015/16 totalling AUD9,000  and 52 rebates were paid in 2016 –17 
totalling AUD114,000.  
 
Eligible farm businesses can apply for a rebate for costs of engaging a suitably qualified service 
provider to carry out one (or more) of the following activities:  
 undertake an assessment required by an insurance provider  
 compile historical farm financial performance and production data  
 analyse insurance options based on a long -term, whole -of-farm assessment.  
Insurance premiums are not eligible for the rebate.  
 
8. Duration  
 
Program opened on 29 March 2015 and has a scheduled end date of 30 June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
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  2  ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRA MME S 
2.1  Sustainable Rural Water Use and Infrastructure Program   
The Sustainable Rural Water Use and Infrastructure Program (SRWUIP) is an AUD10 billion 
national program investing in rural water use, management and efficiency, including improved 
water knowledge a nd market reform, and water purchase for the environment.  It consists of three 
main components: irrigation infrastructure projects (including those projects listed below); water 
purchase and supply measures.  The majority of SRWUIP infrastructure funds are committed to 
projects in the Murray -Darling Basin to support implementation of the Basin Plan and the reduction 
in the amount of water that can be extracted or taken annually from the Basin for consumptive 
use (urban, industrial and agricultural).  A number  of programs are aimed at  improving the 
operation of off -farm irrigation delivery systems and helping irrigators improve on -farm water use 
efficiency.  In return for funding, the water savings generated from these projects are shared 
between the Australian Government for environmental use, and irrigators for consumptive use.  
 
(i) PRIVATE IRRIGATION I NFRASTRUCTURE OPERAT ORS PROGRAM FOR NEW SOUTH WALES  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Private Irrigation Infrastructure Operators Program for New South Wales.  
2. Period covered by  the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This Commonwealth -led competitive grant program is recovering water entitlements resulting from 
water savings generated from eligible infrastructure u pgrade projects by private irrigation 
infrastructure operators.  These projects improve the efficiency and productivity of water use and 
management, both off and on -farm, helping to secure a sustainable future for irrigation 
communities.  
 
4. Background and Aut hority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD750 million Commonwealth -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use 
and Infrastructure Program.  The program is a major element of the Inter -Governmental 
Agreement on Murray -Darling Basin Reform signed in Jul y 2008.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the Irrigation 
Infrastructure Operators.  A comprehensive assessment process is undertaken for all projects prior 
to the approval of government fundin g. Water savings achieved through this program are 
transferred to the Commonwealth and are contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new 
Sustainable Diversion Limits under the Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water savings are delivered 
to the Commonwea lth via a Water Transfer Contract between the water entitlement holder and the 
Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the Private 
Irrigation Infrastructure Opera tors. Three public calls for applications have been conducted.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD917 million program, over three rounds.  Successful private irrigator infrastructure 
operator applicants have received funding of between AUD1 million an d AUD170 million for water 
efficiency infrastructure works.  It should be noted that as part of the grant requirements, a portion 
of the project water savings in the form of water entitlements are transferred to the 
Commonwealth for environmental use.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  Actua l Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
59 136 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program opened on 19 June 2009.  The program has funding to 2018/2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(ii) PRIVATE IRRIGATION I NFRASTRUCTURE PROGRA M FOR SOUTH AUSTRALI A 
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Private Irrigation Infrastructure Program for South Australia.  
 
2. Period covered by the noti fication   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This Commonwealth -led competitive grant program is recovering water savings generated from 
eligible irrigation infrastructure upgrade projects undertaken by  irrigation infrastructure operators, 
delivery partners and individual irrigators.  These projects improve the efficiency and productivity 
of water use and management, both off and on -farm, helping to secure a sustainable future for 
irrigation communities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD14.4 million Commonwealth -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water 
Use and Infrastructure Program.  The program is an element of the Inter -Governmental Agreement 
on Murray -Darling Basin Re form signed in July 2008.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the Irrigation 
Infrastructure Operator, delivery partner or individual irrigator.  A comprehensive assessment 
process is undertak en for all projects prior to the approval of government funding.  Water savings 
achieved through this program as a result of the infrastructure improvements are transferred to 
the Commonwealth and are contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable 
Diversion Limits under the Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water savings are delivered to the 
Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract between the water entitlement holder and the 
Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is p rovided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the successful 
grant applicant (either a private irrigation infrastructure operator, delivery partner or an individual 
irrigator).  Two public calls for application were c onducted.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD14.4 million program.  Two rounds were conducted.  Successful irrigator applicants 
received on average around AUD0.5 million.  It should be noted that as part of the grant 
requirements, a portion of the p roject water savings in the form of water entitlements are 
transferred to the Commonwealth for environmental use.  
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  Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0.4 0.1 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program opened in December 2009.  The program was completed at the end 
of 2016/17.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(iii) QUEENSLAND HEALTHY H EADWATER WATER USE A ND EFFICIENCY PROGRAM  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Queensland Healthy Headwater Water Use and Efficiency Program.  
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led competitive grant program is recovering water savings generated from eligible 
irrigation infrastructure projects undertaken by individual irrigators.  These projects improve the 
efficiency and productivity of water use and management, both off and on -farm, helping to secure 
a sustainable future for irrigation communities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD155 million State -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.  The program is an element of the July 2008 Inter -Governmental 
Agreement on Murray -Darling Basin Reform.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a Funding Agreement between the Commonwealth and the 
Queensland Government.  The Queensland Government then enters into a funding  agreement with 
the successful program applicants.  A comprehensive assessment process is undertaken for all 
projects prior to the approval of government funding.  Water savings achieved through this 
program as a result of the infrastructure improvements and  transferred to the Commonwealth are 
contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable Diversion Limits under the Murray 
Darling Basin Plan.  They are delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract 
between the water entitlement hol der and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a Funding Agreement between the Commonwealth and the 
Queensland Government.  Following a public call for applications and their assessment, the 
Queensland Government then enters into a funding agreement with successful individual irrigators.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD155 million program.  As at 30 June 2017, 12 rounds have been conducted.  It should 
be noted that as part of the grant require ment, a portion of the project water savings are 
transferred to the Commonwealth for environmental use.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 14 - 
 
  Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
18.1 15.4 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program opened in 1 June 2010.  The program has funding to 2019/2020.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(iv) GOULBURN MURRAY WATER CONNECTION PROJECT STAGE 2  
 
1. Title of Subsi dy 
 
Goulburn Murray Water Connection Project Stage 2 (Formerly Northern Victoria Irrigation Renewal 
Program Stage 2).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led competitive grant program addresses water efficiency in both the delivery system 
and user connections in the Goulburn -Murray Irrigation district with 102 gigalitres (long term 
average annual yield) of project water savings transferred to the  Commonwealth.  The funding 
agreement provides for a connection/reconnection/disconnection of individual irrigators to a 
"backbone " irrigation delivery system with a share of the water savings arising from the project 
transferred to the Commonwealth.  
 
This agreement gives certainty to one of Australia 's most important food producing regions and 
represents a strategic recovery of water for the Commonwealth.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD956 million State -led program is funded under the  Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.  The program is a major element of the July 2008 Inter -Governmental 
Agreement on Murray -Darling Basin Reform.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a Funding Agreement between the Commonwealth and the Victorian 
Government.  In turn, the Victorian Government has a funding agreement with the Goulburn 
Murray Water, the organisation implementing the project.   
 
Water savings from the project that are transferred to the Commonwealth are co ntributing 
towards "bridging the gap " to the new Sustainable Diversion Limits under the Murray Darling Basin 
Plan. The water savings delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract between 
the water entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
As per point 5 above.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD956 million program.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 15 - 
 
  Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0 151.9  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program commenced in November 2011 and has funding until 30 June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(v) VICTORIAN FARM MODERNISATION PROJECT  
 
1. Title of Subs idy 
 
Victorian Farm Modernisation Project . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led project supports on -farm irrigation infrastructure upgrades across the 
Goulburn -Murray Irrigation District.  The type of works include flood irrigation, laser levelling, 
converting flood irrigation to drip or spray, system automation, and cha nnel remediation.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD100 million State -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a Funding Agreement betw een the Commonwealth and the Victorian 
Government.  In turn, the Victorian Government has a funding agreement with the Goulburn 
Broken Catchment Management Authority, the organisation implementing the project.  Goulburn 
Broken Catchment Management Authority will make calls for applications and enter into a funding 
agreement with successful applicants.  
 
Water savings from the project that are transferred to the Commonwealth are contributing 
towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable Diversion Limits und er the Murray Darling Basin 
Plan. The water savings are delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract 
between the water entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
As per point 5 above.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD100 million program.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
10.6 32.9 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 16 - 
 
  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The project commenced in November 2013 and has funding until 30 June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(vi) NEW SOUTH WALES STAT E BASIN PIPE – STOCK AND DOMESTIC  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
New South Wales State Basin Pipe – Stock and Domestic.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led program is recovering water savings for the environment generated from the 
replacement of current wat er delivery infrastructure for selected stock and domestic schemes with 
more efficient systems in the NSW Murray -Darling Basin.  This projects aims to improve the 
efficiency and productivity of water use and management on and off -farm, helping to secure a 
sustainable future for irrigation communities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUS137 million State -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.  The program is an element of the July 2008 Inter -Governmental 
Agreement on Murray -Darling Basin Reform.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the New South 
Wales Government.  Water savings achieved through this program are transferred to the 
Commonwealth and are contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable Diversion 
Limits under the Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water savings are delivered to the Commonwealth 
via a Water Transfer Contract between the water entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the New South 
Wales Government.  Eligible applicants can apply to the NSW Government for funding.  
 
7. Level of s ubsidy per unit  
 
This is a AUD137 million program.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0 0 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program commenced in June 2012 and has funding until 2017/2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 17 - 
 
  (vii) NEW SOUTH WALES STAT E WATER METERING SCH EME (INCLUDING PILOT ) 
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
New South Wales State Water Metering Scheme (including p ilot). 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led program is recovering water savings from the installation or upgrades of meters in 
the Southern part of the Murray -Darling Basin and replacing customer -owned meters with State 
Water -owned meters connected via telemetry.  This project will assist in improving the efficiency 
and productivity of water use and management on -farm, helping to secure a sustainable f uture for 
irrigation communities.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD55.4 million State -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.  The program is an element of the July 2008 Inter -Governmental 
Agreement on Murray -Darling Basin Reform.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the New South 
Wales Government.  The funding is enabling the New South Wales Government to purchase 
(or upgrade) and install water meters with telemetric functionality for its irrigators in the Murray -
Darling Basin.  Water savings achieved through this program are transferred to the Commonwealth 
and are contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable Di version Limits under the 
Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water savings are delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water 
Transfer Contract between the water entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding for the implementation of this program is provided to New South Wales through a funding 
agreement with the Commonwealth.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is an AUD55.4 million program.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDm illion  
15 2.5 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program commenced with a pilot in June 2012 and was completed in 2016/2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(viii) NEW SOUTH WALES STAT E IRRIGATED FARM MOD ERNISATION PROJECT ( AND PILOT)  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
New South Wales State Irrigated Farm Modernisation Project (and pilot).  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 18 - 
 
  2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led program aims to upgrade on -farm water infrastructure and strengthen the capacity 
of irrigators to adopt more efficient water management practices, reduce water losses and improve 
productivity.  Water savings arising from project works will be transferred to the Commonwealth for 
environmental use.  These projects improve the efficiency and productivity of water use and 
management on -farm, helping to secure a sustainable future for irri gation communities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This an AUD119.9 million State -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use and 
Infrastructure Program.  The program is an element of the July 2008 Inter -Governmental 
Agreement  on Murray -Darling Basin Reform.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the New South 
Wales Government.  Water savings achieved through this program as a result of the infrastructure 
improvements  are transferred to the Commonwealth and are contributing towards 'bridging the 
gap' to the new Sustainable Diversion Limits under the Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water 
savings are delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract between the water 
entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the New South 
Wales Government.  The New South Wales Government will make calls for app lications and enter 
into a funding agreement with successful applicants.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is an AUD119.9 million program.  It should be noted that as part of the grant requirement, a 
portion of the project water savings in the form of wa ter entitlements are transferred to the 
Commonwealth for environmental use.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
13.4 31.7 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program commenced in June 2012 and has funding until 2018/2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(ix) ON-FARM IRRIGATION EFFI CIENCY PROJECT (INCL UDING PILOT PROJECTS ) 
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Project (including pilot projects) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 19 - 
 
  3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This Commonwealth -led competitive grant program is delivered through local delivery pa rtners 
such as industry bodies and Catchment Management Authorities. The program is assisting 
irrigators to modernise their on -farm irrigation infrastructure and improve water use efficiency 
while returning water savings to the environment. Type of works i nclude conversion of flood 
irrigation to drip or spray irrigation, laser grading, and system automation.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This $509 million Commonwealth -led program is funded under the Sustainable Rural Water Use 
and Infrastructur e Program.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the local 
delivery partners.  A comprehensive assessment process is undertaken for all projects prior to the 
approval of government funding.  Water savings achieved through this program are transferred to 
the Commonwealth and are contributing towards 'bridging the gap ' to the new Sustainable 
Diversion Limits under the Murray Darling Basin Plan.  The water savings are delivered to the 
Commonwealth  via a Water Transfer Contract between the water entitlement holder and the 
Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the local 
delivery partners.  Five public calls  for applications have been conducted.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a $509 million program, over five rounds.  Successful delivery partner applicants have 
received funding of between AUD1 million and AUD33 million for water efficiency infrastructure 
works. The funding has been provided to around 1500 on -farm projects.  It should be noted that as 
part of the grant requirements, a portion of the project water savings in the form of water 
entitlements are transferred to the Commonwealth for environmental use. 
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
62.2 78 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program commenced in 2010.  The program has funding to 2018/2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
2.2  Water for the Environment Special Account  
Murray -Darling Basin Authority modelling in developing the Basin Plan found that a combination of 
additional environmental water and improve d capacity to deliver water through the system could 
increase the number of environmental targets achieved by the Basin Plan.  Amendments to the 
Water Act (2007)  establish the Water for the Environment Special Account and appropriates  
$1,775m to fund the measures. The increased environmental outcomes will be achieved through 
easing constraints to environmental water delivery and recovery of an additional 450GL of 
environmental water (in addition to the 2,750GL) with neutral or benefici al social and economic 
impact for communities.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 20 - 
 
  (i) COMMONWEALTH ON-FARM FURTHER IRRIGAT ION EFFICIENCY PROGR AM (PILOT)  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Commonwealth On -Farm Further Irrigation Efficiency program (pilot) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government established the Commonwealth On -Farm Further Irrigation Efficiency 
(COFFIE) Program to assist irrigators in the Murray -Darling Basin to modernis e and improve the 
efficiency of their on -farm irrigation infrastructure and return the resulting water savings to the 
environment. This program is delivered through local delivery partners such as industry bodies and 
Catchment Management Authorities, irrig ation bodies and irrigators.  
 
The first phase of the COFFIE program 's development involves delivery of one or more pilots to 
test the program design before launch of the full program. The first of these is a pilot program in 
South Australia for up to $15 m illion, which commenced in September 2016 and will run for three 
years.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This Commonwealth -led pilot program is funded under the Water for the Environment Special 
Account established through the Water Act (2007) .  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the local 
delivery partners.  A comprehensive assessment process is undertaken for all projects prior to the 
approval of government funding.  Water savings ach ieved through this program are transferred to 
the Commonwealth and are contributing towards an additional 450GL of environmental water to be 
recovered through efficiency measures with neutral or beneficial social and economic impact for 
communities.  The wa ter savings are delivered to the Commonwealth via a Water Transfer Contract 
between the water entitlement holder and the Commonwealth.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the local 
delivery partners.  A pilot program is currently being conducted in South Australia. The full program 
is being developed and will run until 2024.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
This is a pilot program for up to $15 million. It should be noted that as  part of the grant 
requirements, a portion of the project water savings in the form of water entitlements are 
transferred to the Commonwealth for environmental use.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0 1.8 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The pilot commenced in September 2016.  The overarching efficiency measures program has 
funding through to 2023 -24. 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 21 - 
 
  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is av ailable.  
 
3  FISHERIES PROGRAMMES   
3.1  Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Investment funding  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Fisheries research, development and extension project funding.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The FRDC 's vision is for Australia to have vibrant fishing and aquaculture sectors which adopt 
world class research to achieve sustainability and prosperity with the p lanned outcome to increase 
economic, social and environmental benefits for Australian fishing and aquaculture, and the wider 
community by investing in knowledge, innovation and marketing.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
FRDC is a statutory co rporation within the Australian Government 's Agriculture and Water 
Resources portfolio and is accountable to the Parliament of Australia through the Minister for 
Agriculture and Water Resources. Revenue for RD&E investment is based on a co -funding model 
between the Australian Government and the commercial fishing and aquaculture industries. The 
Corporation was formed on 2 July 1991 and operates under two key pieces of legislation the 
Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989  (PIRD Act) and the Public Governance, 
Performance and Accountability Act 2013  (PGPA Act).  The PIRD Act permits funding and 
administration of research and development relating to primary industries with a view to:  
 
(i) increasing the economic, environmental and social benefits to members of primary 
industries and to the community in general by improving the production, processing, storage, 
transport or marketing of the products of primary industries; and  
 
(ii) achieving the sustainable use and sustainable management of natural r esources; and  
 
(iii) making more effective use of the resources and skills of the community in general and the 
scientific community in particular; and  
 
(iv) supporting the development of scientific and technical capacity; and  
 
(v) developing the adoptive c apacity of primary producers; and  
 
(vi) improving accountability for expenditure on research and development activities in relation 
to primary industries.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
An application for funding is submitted  to the FRDC with a comprehensive assessment process 
undertaken on these applications prior to the approval of funding. Projects receive funding to 
undertake a specific research activity through milestone reports that are monitored by the FRDC.  
 
6. To whom  and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Priorities for projects are set by the state/territory and commonwealth jurisdictions via research 
advisory committees as well as industry groups managed through industry partnership 
agreements.  Funding is provided through  a project funding agreement between the FRDC and the G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 22 - 
 
  applicant/research partner organisation who are selected through open and contestable public 
funding rounds and at times select tender processes.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
RD&E projects vary in bo th their timeframe and budget and can range from several thousand 
Australian dollars to over AUD1 million.  In-kind contributions are also provided by the applicant 
and third parties in amounts similar to the FRDCs contribution.  
 
The FRDC invested AUD24.41 million in 402 active projects during 2016 -17 and AUD24.58 million 
in 415 active projects during 2014 -15. 
8. Duration  
 
Ongoing.  Each year the FRDC fund research projects which have an average duration of three 
years but can range anywhere between several months to five years.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4  INNOVATION  
4.1  Entrepreneurs ' Programme - Accelerating Commercialisation  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Accelerating Commercialisation . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The objective of Accelerating Commercialisation is to encourage and assist small and medi um 
businesses, entrepreneurs and researchers to commercialise novel products, processes and 
services.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Accelerating Commercialisation is an element of the Entrepreneurs ' Programme.  It was launched 
on 1 November 2014.  
 
The Entrepreneurs ' Programme arises from Ministerial Directions and Guidelines issued by the 
Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science on 1 July 2014, which were last revised 
on 1 November 2017.  
 
5. Form of  the subsidy  
An Accelerating Commercial isation Grant is a Grant to support eligible Commercialisation Projects 
for up to 50 per cent of the Eligible Expenditure, up to a maximum of:  
a) AUD250,000 for Commercialisation Offices and Eligible Partner Entities; or  
b) AUD1 million for all other appli cants.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
To be eligible for Accelerating Commercialisation, applicants must:  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 23 - 
 
  a) have  a novel product, process or service they wish to commercialise and trade to customers 
external to the state or territory of the applicant 's place of business;  
b) satisfy the eligibility criteria specific to the relevant Activity; and  
c) not be named by th e Workplace Gender Equality Agency as an organisation that has not 
complied with the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012  (Cth).  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The grantee is required to meet at least 50 per cent of eligible project costs.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
31.2 45.0 
8. Duration  
 
The program commenced on 1 November 2014 and is an on -going program.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4.2  Entrepreneurs ' Programme – Business Management  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Business Management . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The objective of Business Management is to encourage and assist small and medium businesses to 
improve their capabilities, extend their networks and take advantage of growth opportunities.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Business Management is an element of the Entrepreneurs ' Programme.  It was launched 
on 1 July 2014.  
 
The Entrepreneurs ' Programme authority arises from Ministerial Directions and Guidelines issued 
by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science on 1 July 2014, which were last revised 
on 1 November 2017.  
 
5. Form of  the subsidy  
 
This program reimburses a Participant fo r up to half of the cost of engaging a consultant (up to a 
maximum of AUD20,000) to make business improvements that were recommended in the:  
 
a) Business Evaluation Report, Business Evaluation Action Plan, Supplier Improvement Plan or 
Growth Plan; or  
 
b) Business Review Report, Continuous Improvement Report or Continuous Sustainable 
Improvement Plan under the Enterprise Connect programme.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 24 - 
 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To be eligible for Services under Business Management an applicant must:  
 
a) be an Eligible Corporation that is non tax -exempt and is registered for GST;  
 
b) satisfy the sectoral eligibility criteria;  
 
c) have an annual turnover or operating expenditure within the following range:  
 
i. between AUD1.5 million and AUD100 million; o r 
ii. between AUD750,000 and AUD100 million – for an applicant from Remote Australia or 
Northern Australia;  
 
d) be solvent;  
 
e) have operated in Australia and filed business activity statements showing ongoing trading in at 
least three consecutive years;  
f) satisfy the eligibility criteria specific to the relevant Activity; and  
 
g) not be named by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency as an organisation that has not 
complied with the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012  (Cth).  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The grantee is required to meet at least 50 per cent of project costs.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
30.4 33.6 
 
8. Duration  
 
The program commenced on 1 July 2014 and is an on -going program.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
4.3  Entrepreneurs ' Programme – Innovation Connections  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Innovation Connections . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial ye ars 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The objective of Innovations Connections is to encourage and assist small and medium businesses 
to access knowledge, engage with Researchers and foster innovation.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 25 - 
 
  4. Backgro und and authority for the subsidy  
 
As part of the National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA) in December 2015, 
Research  Connections was rebranded to Innovation Connections and expanded.  Innovation 
Connections is an element of the Entrepreneurs ' Programme.  It was launched on 1 January 2016.  
The Entrepreneurs ' Programme authority arises from Ministerial Directions and Guidelines issued 
by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science on 1 July 2014, and which were last revised 
on 1 November 20 17. 
 
5. Form of  the subsidy  
 
The Innovation Connections program reimburses a Participant for up to half the cost, over a period 
of up to 12 months for the cost of a:  
 
a) Researcher Placement, up to a maximum of AUD50,000; or  
 
b) Business Researcher Placement, up to a maximum of AUD50,000; or  
 
c) Graduate Placement, up to a maximum of AUD30,000.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To be eligible for an Innovation Connections Grant, applicants must:  
 
a) have received a Research Facilitation Re port or an Innovation Facilitation Report; and  
 
b) be undertaking one of the following Activities recommended in the Research or Innovation 
Facilitation Report:  
 
i. a Researcher Placement; or  
ii. a Business Researcher Placement; or  
iii. a Graduate Placemen t. 
 
c) be able to fund the total value of the cost of the Innovation Connections Project before receiving 
the Innovation Connections Grant; and  
 
d) identify the proposed research provider, research employee, graduate or post -graduate; and  
 
e) apply  for an Innovation Connections Grant within 12 months of receiving a Research Facilitation 
Report or an Innovation Facilitation Report, unless otherwise agreed by the Programme Delegate.  
 
To be eligible for an Innovation Connections Facilitation an applica nt must:  
 
a) be an Eligible Corporation that is non tax -exempt and is registered for GST; and  
 
b) satisfy the sectoral eligibility criteria; and  
c) have an annual turnover or operating expenditure within the following range:  
 
i. between AUD1.5 million and AUD100 million; or  
ii. between AUD750,000 and AUD100 million – for an applicant from Remote Australia or Northern 
Australia;  
d) be solvent; and  
 
e) have operated in Australia and filed business activity statements showing ongoing trading in at 
least three consecutive years; and  
 
f) must not have previously received a Research Connections Facilitation or an Innovation 
Connections Facilitation, unless otherwise agreed by the Programme Delegate; and  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 26 - 
 
  g) not be named by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency as an  organisation that has not 
complied with the Workplace Gender Equality Act 2012  (Cth).  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Innovation Connections programme reimburses a Participant for up to half the cost, over a 
period of up to 12 months for the cost of a:  
 
a) Researcher Placement, up to a maximum of AUD50,000; or  
 
b) Business Researcher Placement, up to a maximum of AUD50,000; or  
 
c) Graduate Placement, up to a maximum of AUD30,000.  
 
Actual expenditure  
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
6.4 13.7 
 
8. Duration  
 
The program commenced on 1 January 2016 and is an on -going program.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4.4  Entrepreneurs ' Programme – Incubator Support initiative  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Incubator Support initiative . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The objective of Incubator Support initiative is to assist Australian startups to develop the 
capabilities required to achieve commercial success in international markets and realise their 
economic potential faster than they otherwise would and develop Aus tralia's innovation ecosystem 
including in regional areas.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Incubator Support initiative was announced as part of the National Innovation and Science 
Agenda (NISA) in December 2015 and is an element of the E ntrepreneurs ' Programme.  It was 
launched on 20  September 2016.  
 
The Entrepreneurs ' Programme authority arises from Ministerial Directions and Guidelines issued 
by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science on 1 July 2014, and which were last revised  
on 1 November 2017.  
5. Form of  the subsidy  
 
The Incubator Support initiative provides grant funding through two components to deliver 
Incubator Support projects, both of which require a funding contribution from applicants. The two 
components are:  
 
1) support for New and Existing Incubators  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2) support for Expert -in-Residence  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
1) New and Existing Incubators  
 
 The minimum grant amount is AUD26,000  
 The maximum grant  amount is AUD500,000  
2) Expert -in-Residence  
 
 The minimum  grant amount is AUD5,000  
 The maximum  grant amount is AUD100,000  
To be eligible you must  
 
 be an existing incubator or establishing a new incubator that can foster and facilitate the 
development of innovative start -ups focused on international tr ade 
 have an Australian Business Number  (ABN)  
and be one of the following entities:  
 
 an entity incorporated in Australia  
 an incorporated trustee on behalf of a trust  
 an incorporated not for profit organisation  
 a publicly funded research organisation (PFRO)  
 a local government agency or body  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
1) New and Existing Incubators  
 Incubators in major cities may receive a maximum grant of 50 per cent of the eligible 
project  value – up to the maximum grant amount.  
 Incubators  with projects lo cated in regional areas may receive up to 65 per cent of the 
eligible project value – up to the maximum grant amount.  
2) Expert -in-Residence  
 
 The grant amount will be up to 50 per cent of total eligible project value.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0.0 1.5 
 
8. Duration  
 
The program commenced on 20 September 2016 and is an on -going program.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4.5  Industry Growth Centres Initiative  
1.  Title of Subsidy  
 
Industry Growth Centres Initiative . 
 
2.   Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3.  Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Industry Growth Centres Initiative is a sector based approach to industry policy to drive 
growth, productivity and competitiveness by concentrating investment on key growth sectors.  
 
Six Growth Centres h ave been established to deliver the Initiative in the following sectors of 
competitive strength and strategic priority: Advanced Manufacturing; Cyber Security; Food and 
Agribusiness; Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals; Mining Equipment, Technology an d 
Services; and Oil, Gas and Energy Resources.  
 
The Initiative will identify opportunities to reduce regulatory burden, increase collaboration and 
commercialisation, improve capabilities to engage with international markets and global supply 
chains, and en hance management and workforce skills.  
 
4.  Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Programme authority comes from the Industry Growth Centres Initiative Programme Guidelines 
issued by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science.  These Guidelines c ommenced 
on 4 March  2015 and were updated on 21 April 2016.  
 
5.  Form of the subsidy  
 
Growth Centres are funded under funding agreements which stipulate the terms and conditions of 
specific Growth Centre arrangements.  
 
Over the 2015/6 and 2016/17 period:  
 Up to AUD3.5 million per year per Growth Centre has been provided for each Growth Centre 
 to deliver base activities and services.   
 AUD23 million has been provided for the Growth Centres Project Fund, to enable the Growth 
 Centres to undertake collaborativ e projects in their respective sectors.  
 AUD32 million has been provided as Commercialisation Funding to help address key 
 challenges in the commercialization pathway.  
 AUD4 million has been provided as sector -informed grants, to fund the delivery of activ ities 
 and the development of services to address specific challenges identified across multiple 
 sectors.  
6.  To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided to the Growth Centres, established as not -for-profit companies limited by 
guarantee with a Board of respected industry leaders.  The Growth Centres work to drive growth, 
productivity and competitiveness in their respective sectors.  The Australian Government Minister 
responsible for the Industry Growth Centres Initiative has authority to ap prove the establishment 
of each Growth Centre and modification or termination of funding arrangements.  
 
There is scope for other Growth Centres to be established in the future.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 29 - 
 
  7.  Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Each Growth Centre will receive up to AUD3.5 mi llion per year to deliver base activities and 
services.  
 
Each Growth Centre has been able to access up to AUD5.6million from the Growth Centres Project 
Fund, to enable the Growth Centres to undertake collaborative projects in their respective sectors.  
Specific Programme Guidelines have been developed for the Growth Centres Project Fund.  
 
Companies in each growth sector have been able to access funding from a pool of AUD32 million in 
Commercialisation Funding to help address key challenges in the commerciali sation pathway within 
their sectors.  This is administered by the Entrepreneurs ' Programme (under the Accelerating 
Commercialisation element).  The Entrepreneurs ' Programme Guidelines provide further details 
about the Entrepreneurs ' Programme and entities wh ich are eligible to apply for Commercialisation 
Funding.  
 
The Growth Centres shared AUD4 million in sector -informed grants to fund the delivery of 
activities and the development of services to address specific challenges identified across multiple 
sectors.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
36.0 60.6 
 
8.   Duration of the subsidy  
 
The programme commenced on 4 March 2015 and is ongoing.   
 
9.  Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4.6   Centre for Defence Industry Capability (CDIC) Capability Improvement Grants  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
CDIC Capability Improvement Grant . 
  
2. Period covered by the notification   
  
Financial year 2016/17 . 
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
Capability Improvement Grants are aimed at improving the business capability, productivity and 
global competitiveness of Australian defence industry small -to-medium enterprises, aligned with 
Australian defenc e capability priorities.  
 
The intention of the grant is to support  specific business improvement or skills development 
recommendations made by a CDIC business adviser.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
  
Program authority comes from the Centre for Defence Industry Capability Program Guidelines 
issued by the Minister for Defence Industry in September 2016.  
  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants are provided to reimburse recipients for up to half the cost of engaging a consultant or 
expert to implement eligibl e recommendations arising from receipt of a CDIC advisory and 
facilitation service.  This may also include undertaking any eligible skills training.  
 
Funded projects must be completed within 12 months.  For professional skills development and 
academic qualif ications that extend beyond 12 months, grantees must re -apply for a Capability 
Improvement Grant at the end of each 12 month period.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
Grant funds are provided as a reimbursement for eligible capability improvements , to businesses 
that have previously received a CDIC advisory and facilitation service.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The minimum grant amount is AUD5,000 (excluding GST).  
 
The maximum grant amount is AUD250,000 (excluding GST).  
 
There is no limit on the number of grants a business can receive over the life of the CDIC. 
However, funding is capped at AUD250,000 (excluding GST) per grantee in a three year period.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
  
The program commenced on 6 December 2016, and is funded until financi al year 2025/26.  
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4.7  Quantum Computing  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
Quantum Computing . 
  
2. Period covered by the notification   
  
Financial year 2016/2017 . 
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
  
As part of the AUD1.1 billion National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA), the Australian 
Government is investing AUD25 million in Silicon Quantum Computing Pty Ltd (SQC), a new 
Australian company that is supporting the development of silicon quantum computing technology 
in Australia.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Government launched NISA to improve the Australian innovation, science and research 
system.  
NISA sets a focus on science, research and innovation as a key long term driver of economic 
prosperity and growth, and is structured around four key pillars: culture and capital; collaboration; 
talent and skills; and government as exemplar.  The quantum computin g investment is a key NISA 
initiative.  
 
Legislative authority for the AUD25 million funding commitment to SQC is provided through the 
Financial Framework (Supplementary Powers) Amendment (Industry, Innovation and Science 
Measures No. 1) Regulation 2016 .  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 31 - 
 
  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The Government is one of the co -founders of SQC.  In exchange for a shareholding in SQC, 
the Government is providing a AUD25 million equity injection over five years to 2020/21.  
 
As of 1 January 2018, the other shareholders in SQC inclu de the New South Wales Government, 
the University of New South Wales, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Telstra.  
  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
In exchange for a shareholding in SQC, the Government is providing a AUD25 million equity 
injection over five years to the company.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Government 's AUD25 million investment in SQC will be provided as AUD5 million annual 
instalments from 2016/17 to 2020 -21. AUD5.0 million was invested in 2016/17.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
  
The equity injection into SQC is scheduled to be paid from 2016/17 to 2020/21, inclusive.  
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
4.8  Business Research and Innovation Initiative  
1.  Title of Subsidy  
Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII).  
2.  Period covered by notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3.  Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The BRII aims to drive innovat ion within both small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and 
government by offering competitive grants to encourage SMEs to develop innovative solutions to 
public policy and service delivery challenges nominated by Government.  This is both by 
encouraging innova tion by SME 's, growing their capacity and culture, and also by changing 
government procurement culture to look for and support innovation.  
 
4.  Background and Authority for the Subsidy  
 
The program authority for the Business Research and Innovation Initiat ive (BRII) comes from 
Directions and Program Guidelines issued by the Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science 
on 21 April 2016 and updated on 20 September 2016.  
 
The program was announced as part of the National Innovation and Science Agenda (NISA) by the 
Prime Minister on 7 December 2015.  BRII was officially launched by the Minister for Industry, 
Innovation and Science, on 17 August 2016.  
 
5.  Form of the Subsidy  
 
Grants are awarded competitively on the basis of eligibility and merit criteria published in the 
program Guidelines.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 32 - 
 
  6.  To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Applications for feasibility study grants are open to established small to medium enterprises, start -
ups and collaborations involving Australian and international research o rganisations and 
universities.  Applications for the second stage proof of concept grants are only open to grantees 
that have successfully completed a feasibility study addressing the same challenge.  Feasibility 
study grants are paid in full upfront.  Proof of concept grants are paid in three equal payments 
(first upfront) + 10 per cent on final report, due within 18 months.  
 
7.  Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The feasibility study grants are up to AUD100,000 per applicant.  The proof of concept grants are 
up to A UD1million per applicant.  
 
20 companies were awarded feasibility study grants totalling AUD1.864m on 14 March 2017.  
Nine of these companies were awarded proof of concept grants totalling AUD8.75 million, 
announced on 21 September 2017.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0.0 2.2 
 
8.  Duration of the subsidy  
 
Pilot round grants were awarded during 2016/17 (feasibility study grants) and 2017/18 (proof of 
concept grants). The proof of concept grant projects for the pilot rounds will be completed by 
April 2019, with the final grant payment on completion.  The Government has not yet made 
decisions about further rounds.  
 
9.  Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of tra de effects is available.  
 
5  MANUFACTURING  
5.1  Manufacturing Transition Programme  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Manufacturing Transition Programme . 
 
2. Period covered by notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Manufacturing Transition Programme aims to support manufacturing businesses to become 
more competitive and sustainable by investing in a major change or expansion into high value 
manufacturing activities.   
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The AUD50 million Manufacturing Transition Programme was a Commonwealth Government 
commitment to support businesses to invest in a major change or expansion into higher value 
manufacturing activities to drive competitiveness and sustainability.  
 
5. Form of subsi dy 
The Manufacturing Transition Programme is a competitive merit -based grants programme.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 33 - 
 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Businesses who have a capital investment proposal to move to higher value manufacturing can 
apply for grants under the Manufac turing Transition Programme.  The approved grants are paid 
upon achievement of agreed milestones and acceptance of activity reports as defined in individual 
funding agreements.  
  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Manufacturing Transition Programme grants range  from AUD1 million up to AUD10 million, 
with funding up to 25 percent of eligible costs and a minimum project investment of AUD4 million.  
The grants supported projects up to a maximum two and a half year period.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
21.4 11.7 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Manufacturing Transition Programme ran over three years from 2014/15 to 2016/ 17. 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
5.2  Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by notification  
 
Financial year 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The objective of the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund is to transition the Australian 
manufacturing sector to globally focused, high -skill advanced manufacturing, including use of 
advanced technologies, design and engineering excellence and innovative business processes, tha t 
improve the overall efficiency and competitiveness of firms and the broader economy.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The AUD47.5 million Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund  was announced on 8  May 2017 as part 
of the Australian Government 's AUD1 00 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund  designed to boost 
innovation, skills and employment in advanced manufacturing in Australia.  The Advanced 
Manufacturing Growth Fund supports capital projects to establish and expand advanced 
manufacturing activities in  Victoria and South Australia.  
 
5. Form of subsidy  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund is a competitive merit -based grants programme.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Small and medium -sized Australian firms with capital projects to establish and expand advanced 
manufacturing activities in Victoria and South Australia are eligible to apply for funding.   
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 34 - 
 
  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund  grants funding of between AUD500,000  to AUD2.5 
million to cover up to a third of eligible project costs for capital projects that establish or expand 
advanced manufacturing activities in Victoria and South Australia.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund  operates over four years with funding from financial 
year 2017/18 to 2020/21 . 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
6  PASSENGER MOTOR VEHI CLES  
6.1  Automotive Diversification Programme (ADP)  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Automotive Diversification Programme (ADP) .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 – 2016/17 (or until funds are spent).   
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The ADP assists automotive supply chain firms to diversify out of the domestic automotive 
manufacturing sector through investment in capital equipment and thereby retain manufacturing 
capability in Australia.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The AUD155 million Growth Fund, including the ADP, was announced by the Prime Minister and the 
then Minister for Industry on 30 April 2014, as a targeted and integrated response to the closure 
of the Australian automotive manufacturing industry by the end of 2017.  The Growth Fund 
provides assistance to workers, businesses and regions affected by Holden and Toyota withdrawing 
their manufacturing operations from Australia.   
 
The Growth Fund was established by the Australian Government with support from Holden, T oyota 
and the Victorian and South Australian Governments.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Payments are made as direct grants, awarded to companies through a competitive -merit based 
process.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
A list of recipients can be found at http://www.business.gov.au/grants -and-assistance/growth -
fund/Automot ive-Diversification -Programme/Pages/ADP -successful -applicants.aspx .  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The ADP is fully committed and closed for new applications.  ADP is an AUD20 million programme 
which includes AUD18 million in grants.  Applicants could apply for a minimum grant of AUD50,000 
up to a maximum grant of AUD1,000,000 (GST inclusive).   
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 35 - 
 
  Eligible project expenditure is limited to capital equipment, including new equipment and state -of-
the-art second -hand plant and equipment, and reconfiguration costs necessary to undertake the 
projects, which are limited to the remodelling or restructuring of a manufacturing production line.   
 
An eligible project must involve one or more of research and development activities undertaken in 
Australia, retooling activiti es undertaken in Australia, early stage commercialisation activities 
undertaken in Australia, pre -production activities undertaken in Australia, and development of 
export capabilities.   
 
2015/16  2015/16  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
8.8 4.3 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
1 July 2015 until funds are spent.   
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
6.2  Automotive New Markets Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Automotive New Markets Program (ANMP).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The ANMP assisted Australian automotive supply chain companies to broaden their customer and 
product base.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government announced that the ANMP as a joint initiative between the Australian, 
Victorian and South Australian Governments in 2012.  The ANMP was jointly funded by the 
Australia and Victorian Governments, and administered by all three governments.  It is part of the 
Automotive New Markets Initiative under the New Car Plan for a Greener Future . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
ANMP was a competitive grants program.  Successful applicants receive d a reimbursement grant 
for eligible expenditure related to their projects.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
On 30 April 2014, the Australian Government closed the ANMP to new applications.  Applicants 
were required to be automotive component pr oducers, automotive machine tools and tooling 
producers or automotive service providers.  Payments were made for eligible investment up to 
50 per cent of the value of the project.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Individual grants were limited to a maximum of AUD1 million for a 12 month period.  In addition, 
applicants could not receive a cumulative value of grants of more than AUD2 million over the life of 
the program.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 36 - 
 
  2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
1.4 0.0 
 
8. Duration  
 
ANMP was originally intended to provide grants from July 2012 to June 2016.  However, it was 
closed to new applications in April 2014.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available . 
 
6.3  Automotive Transformation Scheme (ATS)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Automotive Transformation Scheme (ATS).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
ATS encourages compe titive investment and innovation in the Australian automotive industry in a 
way that will provide improved environmental outcomes and promote the development of 
workforce skills.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
As part of the A New Car Plan f or a Greener Future, the Government announced that the 
Automotive Competitiveness and Investment Scheme (ACIS) would be replaced by the ATS.  
The ATS was established by the Automotive Transformation Scheme Act 2009 . 
The administration/authority for the allocation of benefits under the scheme is the Department of 
Industry, Innovation and Science.  
ATS operates from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2020.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Eligible participants will receive assistance in the form of payments in arrears for allowable 
expenditures.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Participants may be motor vehicle producers (MVPs), automotive component producers, 
automotive machine tools and tooling producers or automotive service providers.  For MVPs, 
payments are made on the basis of a percentage of allowable production and allowable 
investments in plant and equipment.  
 
For other participants, payments are made in arrears on the basis of a percentage of allowable 
investments in plant and equipment and eligible investments in research and development.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Each participant's total benefits under ATS are limited to 5 per cent of its eligible sales for the 
preceding year.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 37 - 
 
  Actual expenditure  
 
2015/16  2016/17  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
222.8  168.5  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 January 2011 to 31 December 2020.   
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
6.4  Business Capability Support Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Business Capability Support Program (BCSP).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The BCSP provides Australian automotive firms with specific capability development assistance to 
access new markets, either by supplying the global automotive industry or entering non -
automotive industries.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government announced the BCSP in 2012, as part of the Autom otive New Markets 
Initiative under the New Car Plan for a Greener Future . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
BCSP is a competitive merit -based grant program which awarded one grant of AUD2.6 million to 
the successful applicant.  The BCSP was extended in July 2016 wit h funding of AUD1.125 million 
(plus GST) to continue assistance in the lead up to the cessation of passenger vehicle 
manufacturing in Australia in October 2017.  The program ended in September 2017.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The grant was  paid based on achieved program milestones.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
The Australian Government paid AUD3.75 million to the successful applicant.  
 
8. Duration  
 
The Australian Government 's grant agreement with the successful applicant  commenced on 30 
November 2012 and concluded on 30 September 2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  6.5  Skills and Training Initiative  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Skills and Training Initiative.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year  2015/16 – 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The AUD30  million Skills and Training Initiative is fully funded by GM Holden (Holden) and Toyota 
Australia (Toyota).  The initiative is designed to help workers from Holden and Toyota with their 
transition to new employment or self -employment opportunities as a result of the cessation of 
passenger motor vehicle manufacturing in Australia in October 201 7. 
 
Under section 136(1) of the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) Assessment Act 1986 , FBT liabilities will 
arise for Holden and Toyota when their employees receive training that is not associated with their 
current employment.  The Government is supporting Holden and Toyota workers to receive 
maximum benefit from the Skills and Training Initiative through agreement under Act of Grace 
Payments to reimburse Toyota and Holden FBT liabilities accrued as a result of providing training 
to prepare their workers for other jobs.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Skills and Training Initiative is one element of the AUD155 million Growth Fund which is part 
of the Australian Government 's Industry Innovation and Competitiveness Agenda.  
 
The Skills and Training Initiative utilises the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability 
(PGPA) Act 2013  to manage receipt and payments associated with the initiative.   
 
Act of Grace Payments are made retrospectively to Toyota and Holden under sec tion 65 of the 
PGPA Act 2013 .  
 
The administration/authority for the allocation of benefits under the initiative is the Department of 
Education and Training (now the Department of Jobs and Small Business).  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Eligible participants receive reimbursement of actual FBT payments made to the Government on 
training expenditure associated with their contributions to the Government 's Growth Fund.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The initiative is targeted at Holden and Toyota, f or use in assisting their workers to recognise their 
skills and train for new employment.  For Holden and Toyota act of grace payments will be equal to 
the actual FBT liabilities relating to the initiative, which are expected to be lower than the upper 
limit for the initiative.  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Act of Grace Payments to Holden and Toyota under the Skills and Training Initiative are capped at  
AUD15.8 million each.  
 
8. Duration  
 
The Skills and Training Initiative  will operate until 30 June 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  6.6  Toyota Major Facelift Vehicle and Supplier Grant  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Toyota Major Facelift Vehicle and Su pplier Productivity and Capability Program Grant . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Toyota Australia undertook a major mid -cycle overhaul of the Camry to make it globally 
competitive and bought the vehicle to market in 2015; and, helped its Australian suppliers to 
improve their productivity and capability.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government agreed to provide the grant to  Toyota.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government provided AUD28.6 million as a grant to Toyota.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The grant was paid in cash to Toyota.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Australian Government provided AUD28.6 million as a grant to Toyota.  
 
8. Duration  
 
The Australian Government 's grant agreement with Toyota commenced in 2013/14 and will 
conclude in 2017/18.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
7  REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT  
7.1  Australian Government Innovation and Investment Fund - Tasmania  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Australian Government Innovation and Investment Fund – Tasmania (AGIIF) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The AGIIF is a competitive, merit -based program aimed at businesses seeking AUD50,000 or more 
in grant funds towards new projects that create sustainable growth and job opportunities that will 
contribute to the strengthening of Tasmania 's economy.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 40 - 
 
  4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The AGIIF supports the implementation of the Australian Government 's Economic Growth Plan for 
Tasmania and gives effect to the announcement on the 23 October 2013 by the Deputy Prime 
Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development entitled "Coalition Government's 
AUD100M -plus Commitment to Tasmania ". 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants are made on a competitive, merit -based basis to Australian businesses.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
There are 41 businesses with projects expected to generate a total investment of around AUD40 
million across Tasmania . Funding is provided against the achievement of agreed milestones.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
5.0 9.9 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
2014/15 to 2016/17.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
7.2  Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund (GRIIF).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Geelong Region Innovation and Investment Fund aims to encourage new investment to create 
new or additional business capacity that results in sustain able jobs.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The GRIIF was originally announced as a AUD24.5 million programme with contributions of 
AUD15  million from the Australian Government, AUD4.5 million from the Victorian Government 
and AUD5  million from F ord Australia.  Subsequent to the original amount, Alcoa of Australia 
Limited provided a AUD5  million contribution to the GRIIF in response to its decision to close its 
aluminium smelter in Geelong.  
 
5. Form of subsidy  
 
The GRIIF provides competitive, merit -based grants to businesses.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 41 - 
 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Businesses are required to apply for grants under the GRIIF for business investment projects 
which generate sustainable employment and strengthen and diversify the Geelong economy.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The minimum grant is AUD50,000 and there is no maximum grant. Grants may be up to 50 per 
cent of eligible expenditure.   
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
6.5 8.8 
 
8. Duration of subsidy  
 
The Fund runs from 2013/14 to 2017/18.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
7.3  Growth Fund - Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme supports capital investmen t projects 
in manufacturing with demonstrated growth potential. Projects must take place in Victoria or South 
Australia.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Australian Government announced the establishment of an AUD155 million Growth Fund in 
response to the closure of Australia 's car manufacturing industry by 2017.  The Next Generation 
Manufacturing Investment Programme is one element of the Fund.  It is an AUD60 million 
programme, comprising AUD36 million from the Commonwealth Government and AUD 12 million 
each from the Victorian and South Australia Governments.  
 
5. Form of subsidy  
 
The Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme provides competitive grants to 
businesses.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Businesses are required to apply for grants under the Next Generation Manufacturing Investment 
Programme for capital projects which will establish or expand manufacturing operations in South 
Australia or Victoria in new or high value manufacturing outside of automotive.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 42 - 
 
  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Round 1 grants ranged from AUD500,000 to AUD5 million and were capped at 50 per cent of 
eligible costs.  Round 2 grants were capped at AUD2.5 million and one third of eligible project 
costs.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
13.8 28.4 
 
8. Duration of subsidy  
 
The Next Generation Manufacturing Investment Programme is to operate over five years 
from 2015/16 to 2019/20.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
7.4  Melbourne 's North Innovation and Investment Fund  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Melbourne 's North Innovation and Investment Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Melbourne 's North Innovation and Investment Fund aims to encourage new investment to 
create new or additional business capacity that results in sustainable jobs.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The AUD24.5 million Melbourne 's North Innovation and Investment Fund (MNIIF) was a joint 
response by the Commonwealth and Victorian governments following Ford 's announcement that it 
would close manufacturing operations in Australia in 2016.  The MNIIF comprises contributions of 
AUD15 million from the Commonwealth, AUD4.5 million from the Victorian Government and 
AUD5  million from Ford Australia.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The MNIIF provides competitive, merit -based grants to businesses.  
 
6. To whom a nd how the subsidy is provided  
 
Businesses are required to apply for grants under the MNIIF for business investment projects 
which generate sustainable employment and strengthen and diversify the Melbourne North 
regional economy.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The minimum grant is AUD50,000 and there is no maximum grant.  Grants may be up to 50 per 
cent of eligible expenditure.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 43 - 
 
  Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
4.8 5.1 
 
8. Duration of subsidy  
 
The Fund runs  from 2013/14 to 2017/18.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
7.5  Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
To support the Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan by funding identified projects which support 
economic growth and jobs in Tasmani a. 
 
The Outcomes of the Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan are to:  
 secure more jobs;  
 increase investment in industry and business to boost productivity;  
 expand infrastructure to support increased production capacity; and  
 upgrade facilities to improve the livea bility and sustainability of local communities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, the  Hon Warren Truss MP, announced 
on 23 October 2013 that the Government would provide $106 million to fund projects aimed at 
supporting economic growth and diversification in Tasmania.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grant.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan is a competitive grants programme.  Only projects which  
have been identified by the Australian Government will be considered for funding under the 
Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Plan.  
Funding proponents must be a legal entity and have an Australian Business Number (ABN) or an 
Australian Company Number (ACN) to rece ive funding under the programme.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Of the AUD106 million, this Department administers AUD83 million for the Tasmanian Jobs and 
Growth Package for 30 projects.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
July 2013 until 30 June 2018  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
8  ALUMINIUM  
8.1  Portland Aluminium Smelter Assistance Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
Portland Aluminium Smelter Assistance Program .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial year 2016/2017.  
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
  
The purpose of the program was to fund urgent capital improvements, repairs and maintenance 
required to restart production af ter an unexpected power failure caused significant damage to the 
Portland Aluminium Smelter.  
  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
  
The legislative basis for this program is the Industry and Research Development Act 1986 .  
  
5. Form of the subsid y 
  
Direct one -off grant.  
  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
 Unincorporated Joint Venture Partners of the Portland Aluminium Smelter.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
  
The direct grant of AUD30 million was paid to the operating entity of the P ortland Aluminium 
Smelter on behalf of the Unincorporated Joint Venture Partners.  
  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
  
January 2017 – 30 June 2021.  
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
9  TEXTILES, CLOTHING &  FOOTWEAR  
9.1  Clothing and Household Textile (Building Innovative Capability) Scheme 
(BIC  Scheme)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Clothing and Household Textile (Building Innovative Capability) scheme (BIC scheme).  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Clothing and Household Textile Building Innovative Capability scheme (BIC scheme) is aimed 
at fostering t he development of a sustainable and internationally competitive clothing and 
household textile manufacturing and design industry in Australia, by promoting innovation and 
associated investment.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Authority for th e Clothing and Household Textile Building Innovative Capability scheme 
(BIC scheme) is the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Investment and Innovation Programs Act 1999 
(No. 182, 1999).  The BIC scheme is administered by the Department of Industry, Innovation and 
Science.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The BIC scheme provides grants to TCF entities.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Eligible clothing and household textile manufacturing and design entities may register for the 
Clothing and Household Textile  Building Innovative Capability scheme (BIC scheme).  Grants are in 
respect of in respect of research and development activity and are paid annually and in arrears.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Each participant's total benefits under the BIC Scheme in any  one year is limited to five per cent of 
total eligible revenue in the 12 months preceding the claim year.  Total funds are limited to 
AUD22.5 million per annum.  
 
Actual expenditure  
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
21.2 0.0 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program closed on 30 June 2015 with final payments to be made in 2015/2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
9.2  Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) Small Business Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
TCF Small Business Program.  
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The TCF Small Business Program forms a part of the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Post -2005 
Assistance Package.  The policy objective of this package is to foster the development of the 
Australian TCF industry.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 46 - 
 
  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Authority for the TCF Small Busi ness Program is the Textile, Clothing and Footwear Investment 
and Innovation Programs Act 1999 (No. 182, 1999).   
 
The TCF Small Business Program is administered by the Department of Industry, Innovation, 
Climate Change, Science, Research and Tertiary Educa tion. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The TCF Small Business Program provides grants to TCF small businesses.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
TCF small businesses may apply for assistance under the TCF Small Business Program. Grants 
under the TCF Sma ll Business Program are to improve the business enterprise culture of TCF small 
businesses.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Benefits to a TCF small business under the TCF Small Business Program are capped at AUD50,000 
per annum.  Annual funding for the progr am is AUD2.5 million.  
 
Actual expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
0.6 0.0 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The TCF Small Business program will cease on 30 June 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
10  VOCATIONAL TRAINING  
10.1  Industry Skills Fund  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Industry Skills Fund.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year  2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy  objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Industry Skills Fund (the Fund) assisted industry to invest in training and support services, 
and to develop innovative training solutions. The Fund provided additional support to businesses 
located in, or seek ing to expand to, Northern Australia from 1 September 2015.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Fund was a key element in the Australian Government 's Industry Innovation and 
Competitiveness Agenda .  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 47 - 
 
  As part of the Government 's December 2016 Mid-Year Economic Fiscal Outlook statement, the 
Government announced that the Fund would close.  The Fund closed to new applications on 
31 December 2016.  Approved projects will be supported to completion to 30 June 2019.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Eligible participants received assistance in Skills Advice and Training Grants.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The Fund was aimed at industry, with a priority focus on small and medium sized enterprises, 
including micro businesses.  The Fund provided assistance in two forms. Firstly, eligible businesses 
could access a free Skills Advice service which provided tailored advice on training activities to 
address skills gaps and which can increase competitiveness and other activities . Secondly, the  
Fund also provided access to grants to assist with the cost of training.  These grants required the 
eligible business to pay a co -contribution on training costs.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Budget of AUD46.304 million for financial year 2015/2016 and A UD24.564 million  for financial 
year 2016/2017.  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 January 2015 – 31 December 2016  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
SUB-FEDERAL PROGRAMMES  
The States/Territories provide investment attraction/assistance programs (marked with a * under 
the individual State/Territory entries) designed to attract investment from and between the States.  
The following is an estimate of the aggregated le vel of funding for these programmes for the 
financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 together with the estimated number of firms 
assisted/investment packages offered.  Due to the nature of these programs (which may involve in 
some cases the provision of advi sory facilitation services), the funding levels can reflect budget 
figures as opposed to actual grants paid.   
 
Financial Year  2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  83.4 58.6 
No. of companies 
packages offered  In excess of 400  In excess of 500  
 
11  AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY  
11.1  Innovation Connect  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Innovation Connect . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Innovation Connect is an early stage commercialisation program that provides matched -funding 
support for technology focused Canberra based start -ups and entrepreneurs to accelerate viable, 
innovative ideas along the commercialisation pathway.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 48 - 
 
  4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Innovation Connect was announced as a 2008/2009 Budget initiative by the ACT Government and 
is administered by the Chief Minister, Treasurer and Economic Development Directorate, 
ACT Government.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grants  
 
To be eligible to rec eive an Innovation Connect grant, a start -up/business must have:  
 
 operations based in Canberra; and  
 an Australian  Business Number (ABN) (by the time the grant is awarded).  
The business must also be prepared to enter into a formal Deed of Grant with the 
ACT Government.  
 
6. To whom the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding between AUD5,000 and AUD30,000 is available.  Up to 50 per cent of approved funding 
can be paid upfront to commence the project with the remaining funds paid following the 
completion of a stated mile stone.  Each claim requires a comprehensive written report of activities 
undertaken, outcomes achieved and whether objectives were met.  Each milestone must be 
achievable and the activity measurable.  Proof of expenditure is required for all funding support, 
including the matched funding component.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants range between AUD5,000 to AUD30,000 . 
 
8. Duration of subsidy  
 
Innovation Connect has a funding appropriation to 30 June 2021.  The duration of assistance to 
applicants is agreed between the applicant and the ACT Government.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting as assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
11.2  CBR Innovation Development Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
CBR Innovation Development Fund (CBRIDF).  
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
  
The CBRIDF was established in the ACT to foster an integrated innovation ecosystem that supports 
the various stages of entrepreneurship and innovation, and builds capacity and capability in the 
knowledge economy.  
 
4.  Background and Authority for the subsidy  
  
The ACT Government committed to the establishment of the CBRIDF in the 2015 r elease of the 
ACT Government 's business development strategy Confident & Business Ready: Building on Our 
Strengths . 
  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 49 - 
 
  5.  Form of the subsidy  
   
Direct grant.  
 
The CBRIDF competitive grants are aimed at supporting a range of initiatives that develop the 
capability and investment in the ACT 's innovation ecosystem as well as enhancing collaboration 
and broadening access to services and resources in the ecosystem.  
 
Only projects that will deliver benefits primarily to the ACT ecosystem as a whole, rather than  the 
individual applicants, will be considered.  The competitive grants are not intended to fund 'business 
as usual ' or assist businesses to commercialise new products or services.  The priority for CBRIDF is 
projects that deliver new resources, services or new technology/ equipment to cover identified 
gaps within the innovation ecosystem.  
  
6.  To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
In 2015/16 a total of eight CBRIDF grants were awarded.  In 2016/17 a total of nine CBRIDF grants 
were awarded, primarily to higher education institutions and innovation ecosystem practitioners.  
 
A portion of approved funding can be paid upfront to commence the project with the remaining 
funds paid following th e completion of stated milestones.  Each claim requires a comprehensive 
written report of activities undertaken, outcomes achieved and whether objectives were met.  Each 
milestone must be achievable and the activity measurable.  Proof of expenditure is requir ed for all 
funding support, including the matched funding component.   
  
7.  Level of subsidy per unit  
  
Grants range from AUD25,000 to AUD200,000   
  
8.  Duration of the subsidy  
  
The CBRIDF has funding appropriation to 30 June 2021.  The duration of assista nce to applicants is 
agreed between the applicant and the ACT Government.   
9.  Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
11.3  Screen Production Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
   
Screen Production Fund.   
  
2.  Period covered by the notification   
  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.   
  
3.  Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
  
The Screen Production Fund is a business and industry development program that co funds, 
alongside other investors, in commercially focused projects that are wholly or partly undertaken in 
Canberra, and with significant Canberra elements or Canberra based production content.   
  
4.  Background and Authority for the subsidy  
  
The Screen Production Fund is an ACT Government initiative established in 2010/11 with a funding 
allocation of AUD1.8 million over three years. A further allocation of AUD400,000 was made 
in 2015-16. It is administered by the ACT Government 's Chief Minister, T reasury and Economic 
Development Directorate.   
  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 50 - 
 
  5.  Form of the subsidy  
  
Direct grants of up to AUD200,000.   
  
6.  To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
Screen production companies undertaking all or part of their production in Canberra.  Payments are  
made according to a drawdown schedule and meeting of milestones.   
  
7.  Level of subsidy per unit  
  
Grants range from AUD20,000 to AUD200,000.   
  
8.  Duration of the subsidy  
  
The fund is ongoing.   
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the tra de effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
12  NEW SOUTH WALES  
12.1  Startup Support Program (Jobs for NSW)  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Startup Support Program .  
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
In 2015/16, the Innovate Program ceased operations and was replaced by the Startup Support 
Program.  
 
The Startup Support Program helps promising startups to progress from proof of concept stage to  
a minimum viable product.  The NSW Government supports startups as they will provide the 
pipeline of SMEs that will grow future jobs.  
 
The Sydney Startup Hub seeks to leverage the power of clusters to drive the creation of the jobs 
of the future via the s upport of startups in Sydney 's CBD.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Jobs for NSW Fund was approved as a four -year program (financial year 2015/16 -2018/19), 
designed to support high growth Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and startups  create new 
jobs in New South Wales.  
 
The Sydney Startup Hub provides rental and fit out subsidies to tenanted Startup support 
organisations so that they may achieve long -term sustainability and a pipeline of growing startups.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
There  are two Program components:  
 
 Building Partnership - grants for full -scale development and piloting of new -to-market 
solutions  
 Minimum Viable Product – grants for early stages development of prototypes  
 Sydney Startup Hub – grants for fitout and rental subs idy G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 51 - 
 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy was provided  
 
Building Partnership grants are available as a milestone based grant to revenue generating 
startups to undertake a technology project as part of a consortium.   
 
Minimum Viable Product grants are available as a milestone based grant to pre -revenue startups 
with a demonstrable product or concept.   
 
Sydney Startup Hub subsidies are paid to selected tenants of the Sydney Startup Hub.  
 
7. Level of subsidy  
 
The level of subsidies outlined below includes any rollover of p roject subsidies from the Innovate 
NSW Program to the Building Partnerships and Minimal Viability Products.  
 
Building Partnership – up to 35 per cent of project costs to a maximum of AUD100,000  
 
Minimum Viable Product – 50 per cent of project costs to a maximum of AUD25,000  
 
In financial year 2015/16 AUD1.06M was paid, and in financial year 2016/17 AUD2.57M was paid.  
 
Sydney Startup Hub – AUD35 million in rental and fit out subsidies over five years from 2017/18 
to 2021/22.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Duration is agreed between the client and Jobs for NSW.  The timeframe for project completion 
varies from 3 -12 months, dependant on the program component.  Building Partnerships is 
generally 9 -12 months, and Minimum Viable Product is 3 -5 months.  
 
Sydney Sta rtup Hub provides one -off grant for fitout paid in 2017/18.  Rental subsidies are paid 
over the five years on a reducing scale each financial year.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessment  of trade effects is available.  
 
12.2  Regional Solutions Pilot (Jobs for NSW)  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Regional Solutions Pilot . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial years 2016/2017 .  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Jobs for NSW has  a legislative mandate to invest at least 30 per cent of its four -year AUD190m 
Fund in businesses in regional NSW.  The purpose of the Regional Solutions Pilot was to help grow 
new jobs in regional NSW as well as contributing towards achieving the 30 per ce nt regional 
funding target.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Regional Solutions program was part of a Regional Jobs Now product offering approved by the 
Jobs for NSW Board and the Deputy Premier of NSW.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 52 - 
 
  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grant funding for  NSW regional businesses creating more than 10 new full time equivalent jobs 
within 2 years.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy was provided  
 
A total of 15 projects were approved for funding of AUD3.86m.  
 
7. Level of subsidy  
 
In financial year 2016/17 AUD30k was paid.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Funded projects were generally expected to be completed by 30 June 2019 (i.e. a 2 year period).  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permi tting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
12.3  Jobs for NSW Loan Products  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Loan Products . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial year 2015/2016 and 2016/17 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To assist SMEs to scale quickly and create jobs for NSW by providing financial support to 
businesses that struggle to access finance from traditional lenders.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The products were introduced by the Jobs for NSW Board to meet a  market g ap in private lending.  
This program enables SMEs to access loans at a competitive market rates (Regional Growth Loan 
has no interest) to be able to grow their businesses, develop a credit history to assist with future 
lending and to create new jobs.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
There are three Program components:  
 
 Accelerating Growth Loan – direct loan at an interest rate of 9.2 per cent  
 Regional Growth Loan – Direct interest free loan  
 Strategic  Growth Loan – A flexible loan structure at an interest rate of 9.2 per cent  
6. To whom and how the subsidy was provided  
 Accelerating  Growth Loan - for emerging and fast growth small and medium enterprises 
in Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong to create a minimum of 10 FTEs within 2 years   
 Regional  Growth Loan – for emerging and fast growth SMEs in regional NSW outside of 
Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong, to create a minimum of 10 FTEs within 2 years  
 Strategic  Growth Loan –for emerging and fast growth SMEs anywhere in NSW to create 
a minimum of 20 F TEs within 3 years.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy  
 
 Accelerating  Growth Loan – AUD200,000 - AUD500,000 loan  
 Regional  Growth Loan - AUD200,000 - AUD500,000 loan  
 Strategic  Growth Loan - AUD500,000 - AUD1.2million  
In financial year 2016/17 AUD1.9 million was provided.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 Accelerating Growth Loan – up to 3 years  
 Regional  Growth Loan – 4 years  
 Strategic  Growth Loan – up to 4 years  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effec ts is available.  
 
12.4  Jobs for Loan Guarantee  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Loan Guarantee . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial year 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
To increase the amount of bank financing available to fast growth SMEs by providing government 
backing in the form of additional loan guarantees for private loans that enable business growth 
and job creation.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The product was introduced by the Jobs for NSW Board to meet a market gap and enable SMEs 
greater access to private finance.  This program enables SMEs to access private loans to grow their 
businesses, and to create new jobs.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Jobs for NS W acts as a guarantor for eligible SMEs accessing bank financing.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy was provided  
 
The product is available to fast growth SMEs with revenue of at least AUD3 million who have an 
inability to access sufficient funds to enable busine ss expansion.  
 
In financial year 2016/17 AUD5.8 million was provided.  
 
7. Level of subsidy  
 
Jobs for NSW will act as a guarantor of up to 50% of the loan with a maximum guarantee of 
$5 million of the total loan.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Repayment term of typically 2 -5 years.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 54 - 
 
  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
12.5  Jobs Action Plan Payroll Tax Rebate Scheme  
1. Title of Subsidy  
Jobs Action Plan Payroll Tax Rebate Scheme .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The purpose of the Scheme is to assist in the creation of new jobs by establishing a payroll tax 
rebate scheme that  gives employers an incentive to increase the number of their full time 
equivalent (FTE) employees, for a period of at least two years.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
In 2011 the NSW Government announced the Jobs Action Plan – Targeting 100,000 new jobs for 
NSW over a period of two years.  The Jobs Action Plan is a key priority of the NSW Government and 
provides eligible NSW businesses with a payroll tax rebate when they employ new workers in new 
eligible employment.  
 
The rebate is available for e ligible jobs commencing on or after 1 July 2011 and before 
1 July 2019.  
 
Revenue NSW (previously the NSW Office of State Revenue) administers the Scheme through the 
Payroll Tax Rebate Scheme (Jobs Action Plan) Act 2011 . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
The Scheme pro vides for a payroll tax rebate to eligible employers who increase their full time 
equivalent employees over a two -year period.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
The rebate is provided to eligible employers who pay payroll tax and increase their full  time 
equivalent employees over a two year period after 1 July 2011.  To receive the Jobs Action Plan 
rebate, the minimum employment for the new job is 2 years starting on the date the employment 
is commenced. A registration for a new job must be made withi n 90 days of the job 
commencement date.  
 
New jobs commencing on or after 31 July 2016 will only be eligible for the rebate if the employer 's 
FTE employee number, prior to the new job, is at or below 50.  
 
Employers are required to register (online) the empl oyment of a person in a position that is a new 
job and advise the number of FTE employees immediately before the position was filled.  At the one 
year anniversary of the employment of the new person, the employer can claim the rebate (online) 
provided they advise of an increase in the FTE.  
 
The employment of a person is included in the rebate scheme if the employment meets all of the 
following conditions:  
 
A person is employed (full time, part -time or casual) in a position that is a new job.  
The employment commenced on or after 1 July 2011.  
The employment is maintained for a period of at least 2 years, to be eligible for the full rebate.  
The services of the employee are performed wholly or mainly in NSW.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
The rebate is paid to each individual employer/business.   
From 1 July 2011 -30 June 2013 the rebate was paid to employers in two instalments; AUD2,000 at 
the first anniversary of the employment of the new person and AUD2,000 at the second 
anniversary.  This equated to AUD4000 for each  new employee.   
From 1 July 2013, the second year rebate was increased to AUD3,000, equating to AUD5000 for 
each new employee.  
From 31 July 2016, the total rebate amount per new job increased to AUD6,000. New jobs 
commencing on or after 31 July 2016 receiv e a rebate of AUD2,000 payable on the first 
anniversary and AUD4,000 on the second anniversary.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The subsidy is provided as a rebate in two annual instalments, after the first and second 
anniversaries of employment.  
 
9. Statistical data  permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects is available.  
 
12.6  StudyNSW Partner Projects  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
StudyNSW Partner Projects . 
  
2. Period  covered  by the notification  
  
Financial  years  2015/2016  and 2016/2017 . 
  
3. Policy  objective  and/or  purpose  of the subsidy  
 
StudyNSW Partner Projects are jointly -funded projects delivered in partnership with the 
international education industry to further StudyNSW goals, including growing international 
student numbers in NSW and improving the quality of their experience.  The aim of Partner Projects 
is to encourage collaboration within the NSW international education sector to deliver strategic, 
innovative projects which demonstrate a strong benefit to the  sector and address sector gaps.  
Partner projects are selected and funded through a competitive process.  
 
4. Background  and authority  for the subsidy  
  
The Partner Projects program was launched in September 2014, alongside StudyNSW 's 
establishment.  It is central to StudyNSW 's project delivery model agreed by (NSW) Cabinet.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a direct funds transfer to the project partner established through a 
Funding Deed between the Department and the project partner.  
  
6. To whom  and how the subsidy  is provided  
 
Payments are made to project partner through two instalments.  The first payment at 
commencement of the project with the second delivered mid -project when the partner provides a 
report on project progression.   
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy  
  
Total funding contribution for all selected Partner Projects:  
 
2015/16: AUD260,000  
2016/17: AUD326,450  
  
8. Duration  of the subsidy  
 
Ongoing. StudyNSW holds a Partner Project application round each year and each project duration 
is for the financial year of the funding round.  
  
9. Statistical  data permitting  an assessment  of the trade  effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
12.7  Legacy Programs  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Legacy Programs – Regional Industries Investment Fund (RIIF) and State Investment Attraction 
Scheme (SIAS) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
These programs were established to drive economic growth (RII F in regional NSW and SIAS by 
supporting businesses who wanted to invest in NSW).  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The programs were created in 2011 through a NSW Government decision to amalgamate 
11 former industry subsidy programs.  The programs ceased operating on 30 June 2015.  However 
the NSW Government continues to manage projects where there are financial commitments.  The 
last commitment will cease in June 2022.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
These are grants -based programs providing limited financial assistance on a case -by-case basis. 
Financial assistance did not exceed 80% of the projected payroll tax revenues over the first five 
years of the project.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy was provided  
 RIIF – financial support was provided for investment proj ects in regional NSW  
 SIAS – financial support was provided to attract investment to NSW.  
7. Level of subsidy  
The amount of financial assistance varied with each project.  
 
Funds provided: AUD12.8 million in financial year 2015/16 and AUD13.04M in financial year 
2016/2017.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The duration of subsidy was agreed between the Department and the project proponent on a case 
by case basis.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessm ent of trade effects is available.  
 
12.8  Knowledge Hubs Initiative  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Knowledge Hubs Initiative .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Knowledge Hubs are industry -led collaborative partnerships focused on NSW industry sectors.  
They bring together businesses, research organisations and industry associations.  Their purpose is 
to share information, direct research and collaborate through shared projects to dri ve innovation 
and create shared value, while increasing business competitiveness.  
 
Five knowledge hubs have been established – Energy and Resources, Creative Industries, Financial 
Services, Medical Technology, Transport and Logistics.  
 
The NSW Government provides co -funding for approved projects conducted by the Knowledge 
Hubs that have the potential to provide industry wide benefits.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
  
Knowledge Hubs were identified as a priority under NSW Industry Action Plans.  
  
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Co-funding is provided for approved projects being conducted by the industry -led Knowledge 
Hubs.  
   
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Co-funding is provided to the industry -led Knowledge Hubs.  
  
7. Level of subsidy  
  
A maximum o f 25 per cent of the total project cost is provided.   
 
Up to AUD1.0 million in funding is available over two years for FY 2017/2018 and FY 2019/2020.  
  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The duration varies depending on the project and is agreed between the client and the NSW 
Department of Industry.  
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
13  NORTHERN TERRITORY  
13.1  Industry and Business Assistance  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Industry and Business Assistance.*  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
To support the growth and development of the Northern Territory's industrial and commerci al base 
through the provision of appropriate and prudent assistance to industries.  To assist and encourage 
the development, expansion and diversification of primary, secondary and tertiary industries in the 
Northern Territory by providing grants to eligibl e new or expanding business.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
There is no legislation determining Industry and Business Assistance.  The programme is 
administered, on a case -by-case basis, by the Department of Business.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Assistance eligibility is not restricted by sector, category or enterprise, although each proposal 
must be of a commercially viable nature and have the ability to demonstrate potential growth and 
benefi t to the Northern Territory.  Assistance is generally available to businesses undertaking a 
particular endeavour (i.e. a special project).  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
See above table for the aggregated expenditure and the estimated number of firms assist ed for 
financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The programme is ongoing.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
13.2  Business Innovation Support Initiatives  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Business Innovation Support Initiatives (BISI) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The program fills a gap in other support programs for Northern Territory businesses that wish to 
use science, engineering, technology and design to develop new products, processes and services.  
The program will help innovative businesses increase their revenue growth, access new mar kets, 
improve productivity and efficiency, employ more workers and provide business with a competitive 
advantage and ongoing sustainability.  
 
4. Background authority for the subsidy  
 
The program aligns and contributes directly to the Northern Territory Gover nment's Framing the 
Future blueprint, specifically by improving the productivity and competitiveness of business and G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  industry through the promotion and support of business innovation, collaboration and capacity 
building.  
 
The program authority for BISI co mes from Ministerial directions following Budget Cabinet 
approval on 21 March 2014.  The program launched on 1 July 2014.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Vouchers are awarded on the basis of eligibility and merit criteria.  Grants are awarded 
competitively on the basis of eligibility and merit criteria.  
 
6. To whom and how is the subsidy provided  
 
The BISI Program offers funding to Northern Territory -based pre -start-ups, start -ups, sole traders, 
micro businesses and SMEs, to ca rry out science, engineering, technology and design R&D projects 
which could lead to successful new products, processes and services.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants are limited to 50 per cent of the project cost up to AUD60,000. Vouchers are limited t o 60 
per cent of project cost up to AUD25,000.  
 
To date, 36 companies have been awarded vouchers and grants.  
 
8. Duration  
 
The program opened on 1 July 2014 and is ongoing.  The fifth grant round will be completed in 
April 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an  assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
14  QUEENSLAND  
14.1  Future Resources Program  
1. Title of the Grant Scheme  
 
Future Resources Program – Collaborative Drilling Initiative.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Future Resources Program – Collaborative Drilling Initiative is intended to increase the 
knowledge and perception of the prospectiv ity of Queensland, and thereby increase the chances of 
a discovery that will lead to the development of a new generation of mineral and energy resources.  
 
Funding for the grants will be set as follows:  
 
 Collaborative Drilling Initiative – 50 per cent of pr oject direct drilling costs up to 
 AUD150,000 per project to assist in the testing of targets by drilling.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The AUD3 million in grants are part of the AUD30 million Future Resources Program.  Planned 
allocation was approximately AUD1.5 million for Round 8 and the remaining AUD1.5 million to 
Round 9.  
 
5. Form of the grant  
 
Rounds are organized and the allocation of grants are competitive and proposals submitted should 
address assessment criteria set down in guidel ines provided under the Initiative.  
 
Grants are set amounts defined under each initiative or half the estimated direct drilling costs 
whichever is lower.  
 
Projects are to be completed in 21 months.  Grants are paid upon a successful assessment of a 
report after project completion.  
 
6. To whom the grant is provided  
 
The exploration industry.  
 
7. Level of grant per unit  
 
Assessment recommendation - Round 8 was allocated AUD1.58 million. Round 9 was allocated 
AUD1.43 million.  
 
In 2014/2015 expenditure was AUD4 27 013.  In 2015/16 expenditure was AUD358 148.  
In 2016/17 expenditure was AUD447 748.  
 
8. Duration of the scheme  
 
The Future Resources – Collaborative Drilling Initiative commenced in 2013/2014 and concluded 
in 2016/2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting a n assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
14.2  Guarantee to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd  
1. Title of the Grant Scheme  
 
Guarantee to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Queensland Government has provided a guarantee to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd 
with respect to the performance of the tenant, Patheon Biologics (formerly DSM Biologics 
(Australia) Pty Ltd), under the sublease of the new scale -up manufacturing facility for commercial 
biologic production, co -located with the Translational Research Institute.  
 
4. Background and author ity for the subsidy  
 
The guarantee is provided by the State of Queensland acting through the Department of 
Environment and Science.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is in the form of a guarantee.  
 
6. To whom the subsidy is provided  
 
The guarantee is pr ovided to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
From May 2013, the State guarantees to Translational Research Institute Pty Ltd the performance 
of the tenant 's obligations under the sublease, including payment of AUD1 million rent (CPI 
adjusted) per annum and all outgoings during the first ten years of the sublease.  
 
8. Duration of the scheme  
 
The rental guarantee commenced May 2013 and extends to April 2023.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade ef fects 
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
14.3  Life Sciences Queensland (LSQ) Project Delivery 2011 - 2019  
1. Title of the Grant Scheme  
 
Life Sciences Queensland (LSQ) Project Delivery 2011 – 2019. 
 
2. Period covered by  the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
As Queensland 's life sciences industry association, LSQ is tasked with delivering a range of 
activities with the aim of assisting Queensland 's life sciences business and research interests to 
showcase their capabilities to international collaborators and investors.  LSQ also provides a means 
for local industry to meet, discuss important issues and shape the agenda for the future growth of 
the secto r. 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Funds are provided by the State of Queensland acting through the Department of Environment and 
Science.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance is provided in the form of a grant under the Smart Futures Fund scheme.  
 
6. To whom the subsidy is provided  
 
Ongoing project delivery funds are provided to LSQ based on an agreed annual plan of activities.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding of AUD465,000 per annum is paid quarterly against a schedule of milestone d eliverables.  
 
8. Duration of the scheme  
 
The first tranche of funding was AUD1.86 million over four years (from 1 July 2011 to 
31 July 2015).  The second tranche of funding is also AUD1.86 million over four years, from G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 62 - 
 
  1 January 2016 to 31 December 2019.  There was a six month unfunded period between the two 
tranches.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
14.4  Medical Research Commercialisation Fund (MRCF)  
1. Title of the Grant Scheme  
 
Medical Research Commercialisation Fund (MRCF) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
MRCF provides investment funding for commercialisation of early stage research discoveries from 
member research organisations in Queensland as well as advice on intellectual property protection, 
due diligence assessment, establishing a start -up company and guiding early stage investments 
through development processes.   
 
A condition of the investment commitment by investors is that state governments contribute to the 
operational costs of the MRCF collaboration.  This support is crucial in assisting the investors to 
address their "management expe nse ratio ", which is a significant impediment to biotechnology 
investing due to the timeframe it takes investments in science to mature and generate.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The MRCF scheme is administered by the Department of Health  on behalf of the Queensland 
Government.  There is no direct legislative authority for this programme.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Payment by direct grant of AUD344,231 (excluding GST) in 2015/16 and AUD400,000 
(excluding  GST) in 2016/17.  
 
6.  To whom the subsi dy is provided
 
MRCF member research organisations in Queensland . 
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
For the period 1 January 2009 to 30 June 2022 the grant has a maximum value of AUD4,55 4,231 
(excluding GST).   
 
8. Duration of the scheme  
 
From 1 January 2009 to 30 June 2022  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
14.5  Made In Queensland Grants Scheme  
1. Title of the Grant Scheme  
 
Made in Queensland (MIQ) Grants program . 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2016/2017.  
 
3.  Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
MIQ provides grant funding to support Queensland 's small to medium enterprises (SME) in the 
traditional manufacturing sector to become more internationally competitive and adopt innovative 
processes and technologies.  The program is aimed at supporting existing jobs and creating new 
jobs in Queensland manu facturing businesses and in the state 's supply chains.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The MIQ program is an important initiative within the Queensland Government 's AUD200 million 
Jobs and Regional Growth package announced on 13 December 2016 .  
 
MIQ complements the Queensland Government 's Advanced Manufacturing 10 -Year Roadmap and 
Action Plan (the Roadmap) released on 14 December 2016.  
 
The MIQ program opened for the receipt of applications on 31 January 2017.   
 
In October 2017, the Queensland Government announced the doubling of funding for MIQ, taking 
the allocation to a total of AUD40 million for the statewide program.  
 
5.  Form of the subsidy  
 
An MIQ grant will range from AUD50,000 to AUD2.5 million in matched  funding on a dollar -for-
dollar basis.  Individual businesses will be limited to a maximum of four grants.  The total value of 
all MIQ grants received by any one business must not exceed AUD2.5 million.  
 
6. To whom the subsidy is provided  
 
To be eligible for  an MIQ grant, a business must:  
 
 be a Queensland -based manufacturer whose principal activity is manufacturing and from 
which the majority of its annual turnover is derived  
 be registered for GST and hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) and an Australian  
Company Number (ACN)  
 be an SME with between five and 200 full -time equivalent employees located in Queensland; 
or be able to demonstrate that, given the headcount and either turnover or balance sheet 
total, the business should be considered an SME  
 provide  three -year audited financial statements including profit and loss and balance sheets.  
(If the business has been in operation for less than this time, a statement of viability and 
'management accounts ' report prepared by a chartered accountant will be accepted)  
 propose a project which has not yet commenced and which aligns directly with the 
MIQ program objectives and with recommendations from an independent benchmark report or 
other business evaluation study conducted within the last 12 months  
 be able to demonstrate the ability to contribute at least 50 per cent of the eligible project 
costs.  
 
7.  Level of subsidy per unit  
 
As at 31 January 2018, 27 companies have entered into agreements with a total app roved value of 
AUD8,632,863  
 
8.  Duration of the scheme  
 
AUD20 million was allocated for the 2017 calendar year and a further AUD20 million has been 
allocated for the 2018 calendar year.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9.  Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
14.6  Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2016/17. Note: t he Fund commenced in July 2016.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund has been designed to attract businesses to 
Queensland, either to relocate or establish new projects in the state.  The fund w ill support jobs 
creation, regional growth, increased innovation and the building of local supply chains.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund was implemented in July 2016.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Incentives potentially offered to selected projects include payroll tax refund, stamp duty refund 
and grants to offset establishment or relocation costs.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The following principles form the basis for the provision  of financial incentives packages under the 
Advance Queensland Industry Attraction Fund to attract companies to establish, relocate to or 
expand and reinvest in Queensland.  
 
 Incentives are targeted at achieving outcomes consistent with the Queensland Government 's 
broader policy objectives.  
 The project must be geographically contestable.  
 The project must be commercially viable in the absence of any financial incentive.  
 Financial incentives are provided on the basis that:  
 avenues of non -financial assist ance have been appropriately investigated  
 a project will generate economic and regional growth  
 an incentive is linked to the achievement of clearly defined outcomes and milestones.  
There are four criteria applied to determine if a project should receive fi nancial assistance.  
 
 sustainable jobs  
 regional development  
 technology and innovation  
 supply chain impact  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
An eligible project may receive financial assistance of up to AUD10 million.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program is  ongoing.   
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available . 
 
14.7  Fisheries:  Net Buyback Scheme, Settlement Scheme and Impact Alleviation 
Scheme  
1. Title of the subsidy/product  
 
Net Buyback Scheme, Settlement Scheme and Impact Alleviation Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The purpose of the scheme was to assi st commercial fishers impacted by the implementation of 
three net free zones to:  
 
 Transition their fishing business to other areas or other fishery types.  
 Reduce the transfer of commercial fishing effort into other areas of the State.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Queensland Government gave an election commitment to implement three net free areas in 
Queensland at Cairn, Mackay and Rockhampton.  
 
www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms -fishing -forestry/fisheries/net -free-zones  
 
Under th e Sustainable Fishing Policy released prior to the 2015 State election, the Palaszczuk 
Government committed to the implementation of three net free fishing areas in Cairns, Mackay 
and Rockhampton to improve recreational fishing opportunities, boost regiona l tourism and reduce 
conflict between recreational and commercial fishers.  A total of AUD10 million was provided to 
implement the three zones.  
 
The East Coast Inshore Fin Fish Fishery operates under an approved Wildlife Trade Operation 
under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999  dated 4 March 2016.  
5. Form of the subsidy  
 QDAF provided three schemes to address the impacts of the implementation of the three net 
free zones:  
 Net licence buyback Scheme,  
 Settlement Scheme a nd  
 Impact Alleviation Scheme.  
 The Net buyback Scheme aimed to remove up to 46 commercial fishing boat licences 
(CFBL 's) to reduce the possibility of transferred fishing effort along the East coast of 
Queensland following the reduction in fishing area created by the implementation of the 
NFZ's. This Scheme was conducted over two schemes, the first purchasing 27 CFBL 's at a 
total cost of AUD3.318 million, and the second purchasing 19 CFBL 's at a total cost of 
AUD2.614 million .  
 The Settlement Scheme prov ided a total of AUD1 million to 95 eligible fishers who had 
fished in the specified area in the previous three calendar years (2012, 2013, 2014).  
87 commercial fisher accepted payments under this scheme totalling AUD1.026 million . 
 The Impact Alleviation Sc heme provided payments to 30 eligible fishers at a total of 
AUD1.5  million.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The two net buyback Schemes were available to commercial fishers:  
 
Round 1 – Net Buyback Scheme   
The voluntary Licence Buyback scheme was available to holders of a commercial fishing vessel 
licence that had recorded net fishing effort in one or more of the Zones in the period between 
1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014.  
 
Round 2 – Net Buyback Scheme  
A person was eligible for assistance u nder this scheme if they held a commercial fishing boat 
licence that had fishery symbol 'N1' or 'N2' written on it. These symbols allow the use of large 
mesh nets.  
 
Consideration for acceptance of eligible offers was given in the following priority order:   
1. Surrender offers from holders who were also eligible under the 2015 Net Fishing Buyback 
Scheme; then  
2. Surrender offers from holders who had fished in areas near the net free zones in 2012, 2013 
or 2014, followed by  
3. Surrender offers from any other eligible licence holders.   
  
Settlement Scheme  -  
This scheme was available to commercial fishers who had been in control of a licensed commercial 
fishing boat that undertook commercial net fishing within one or more the Zones.  
 
In order to be eligi ble for the settlement scheme evidence had to be provided, in the form of 
commercial logbooks, that demonstrated that the fisher was in charge of a commercial vessel 
operating in the Zones between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2014.  This evidence needed t o 
be received by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries before 1 April 2015.  
Fishers were offered a set amount based on a formula which used the number of days they had 
fished in the Zones between 2012 and 2014 and a daily rate.  
 
Impact Alleviation S cheme  
The Impact Alleviation Scheme was available to commercial fishers most impacted as a result of 
the introduction of the Zones with each eligible fisher sharing a pool of $1.5M that was set aside 
from the budget of $10M.  
Fishers who had recorded at l east 60 days net fishing effort in the Zones (as recorded in logbooks 
received before 1 April 2015) and where that effort was at least 50% of their total net fishing 
effort were eligible for payments under this scheme.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Net Buyback Scheme 1 and 2  
 
Licence holders were offered a fixed price for the entire licence package.  The value of the offer 
varied from licence to licence depending on the fishery symbols attached to the licence.  
 
Settlement Scheme  
 
Fishers, including fishe rs who had leased a licence were eligible for a payment of AUD500 per day 
of fishing effort recorded in the Rockhampton and Mackay net free zone.  
 
Fishers in the Cairns net free zone were eligible for a payment of AUD1000 per day of fishing effort 
due to a  previous agreement between fishers in this area and the Department.  
 
Impact Alleviation Scheme  
 
A pool of AUD1.5 million was set aside for the 30 eligible fishers in this scheme and payments 
varied according to the number of days that they had fished  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  Total expenditure for the period:  
Net Buyback Scheme round 1 AUD3.318 million  
Net Buyback Scheme round 2 AUD2.614 million  
Settlement Scheme   AUD1.026 million  
Impact Alleviation Scheme  AUD1.5 million  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 July 2015 to 30 June 2017.  
 
Net Buyback S cheme round 1   6/10/15 to 7/12/15  
Net Buyback Scheme round 2   8/8/16 to 19/9/16  
Settlement Scheme    6/10/15 to 7/12/15  
Impact Alleviation Scheme   6/10/15 to 7/12/15  
 
14.8  Primary Industry Productivity Enhancement Scheme (Pipes)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Primar y Industry Productivity Enhancement Scheme (PIPES)  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
fostering  the development of a more productive and sustainable rural and regional  sector in 
Queensland  
supporting the state 's economy by providing assistance to primary producers, small businesses 
and other elements of the state 's economy  
 
4. Background and authori ty for the subsidy  
 
To assist primary producers to develop and improve sustainable enterprises  
 
http://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/current -programs   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
5.1 Sustainability Loan - Primary producer  
 
Improving enterprise efficiencies  
 
 Make production land work better by building fences, dams, storage facilities, improving 
irrigation, or establishing additional water points.  
 Implement on -farm value adding or supply chain initiatives t o ensure an enterprise 
continues to be successful for years to come.  
Upgrading or diversifying operations  
 
 Upgrade operations to improve productivity - buy or replace plant or machinery as part 
of farm business planning, or diversify operations.  
 Purchase livestock  or machinery.  
Achieve long -term sustainability  
 
 Purchase equipment to meet environmental requirements, or drought/flood 'proof' a 
property. Implement sustainable resource management practices, including alternative 
energy systems to achieve long -term sustainability.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5.2 First Start Loans  
 
Acquire first farm business  
 
 Assist with purchase of a property or supporting leasing or sha re farming arrangements.  
Become a partner in the family farm  
 Assist with purchase property from producers parents or other family members, or enter 
a family partnership.  
Achieve viability  
 First Start Loans can help you build your existing operation to sta nd-alone viability, for 
instance by:  
o improving infrastructure such as fences, water storages, grain and feed storage 
and irrigation  
o upgrading plant and equipment purchasing livestock in specific circumstances  
o improving energy efficiency by uptake of curren t and renewable technologies  
o diversification into other on -farm enterprises.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
PIPES Loans are available to eligible primary producers in the state of Queensland.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Sustainability Loan - Primary producer  
 Loan amount  up to AUD1.3 million  
 Loan term up to 20 years  
 Low interest  rates fixed for 1, 3 or 5 years.  
First Start Loans  
 Loan amount up to  Up to AUD2 million  
 Loan term up to 20 years  
 Low interest rates fixed for 1, 3 or 5 years.  
Total whole of program lending cap of up to AUD100 million per year.  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 July 2015 to 30 June 2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15  SOUTH AUSTRALIA  
15.1  South East Forestry Partnerships Program (SEFPP)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
South East Forestry Partnerships Program (SEFPP) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The purpose of the SEFPP is to support the development of innovative products and technologies 
to encourage a viable and strong timber sawmilling industry, and create and secure jobs.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The SEFPP i s a merit -based grant program accessible to applicants in the South East of South 
Australia and was created to fulfil an obligation in relation to the forward sale of the plantations in 
South East of South Australia.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Payments to suc cessful applicants are made in the form of a grant, paid in parts, and as 
reimbursements after costs have been incurred and performance milestones have been met . 
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Eligible organisations are those that may provide  a dedicated service to, or are located or 
intending to locate in, the South East of South Australia defined as the Limestone Coast region.  
A total of AUD27 million was allocated over three rounds.  Some applicants received funding under 
more than one round.  
Round One (5 grants) for AUD15,377,931  
Round Two ( grants) for AUD4,507,000  
Round Three (6 grants) for AUD7,115,069  
In 2015/ 2016, a total of $1,056,259 of SEFPP funding was paid.  
In 2016/ 2017, a total of $6,276,436 of SEFPP funding was paid.  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
Recipients to match government funding at least dollar for dollar.  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The full allocation of the program was made over financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 . 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of  the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.2  Supporting Brands of Our Key Regions Grant Funding Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Supporting Brands of our Key Regions Grant Funding Program . 
 
2. Period cove red by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The objective of the program is to support regions to develop and execute effective and 
sustainable region -specific strategic food, wine an d culinary tourism marketing strategies and 
activities, which support both regional identities, the state brand and positioning of South 
Australia . 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Supporting Brands of our Key Regions program was announced  as a 2014/2015 State Budget 
election commitment to help regions across South Australia develop region -specific strategic 
marketing initiatives to promote their area.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Reimbursable grant.  Grant payments are made on receipt of a milestone report detailing 
satisfactory evidence to demonstrate expenditure of funds and completion of agreed project 
milestones . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Approved organisations include South Australian industry (food, wine and tourism) associations 
and Regional Development Australia Associations.  
A total of AUD412,000 was allocated to 12 approved projects.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
Grant payments provided to successful recipients range from AUD15,000 up to a maximum of 
AUD40,000 wi th co-contribution (desirable).  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
One off program, administered over two years from financial year 2014/2015.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade e ffects is available.  
 
15.3  Building South Australia 's Premium Food and Wine Credentials Grant Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Building South Australia 's Premium Food and Wine Credentials Program – Round 2 – Food and 
Wine Businesses/Industry; Round 3 – Non-GM/O rganic . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The Building South Australia 's Premium Food and Wine Credentials Grant Program co -invests with 
food and beverage business and industry to raise standards to assist with attaining third -party 
certifications for credentials that are required to access markets or contribute to premium prices.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The grant program delivers on an e lection commitment (March 2014) to grow South Australia 's 
food and beverage sectors.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Reimbursable grant.  Grant payments are made on receipt of a post -activity report detailing 
satisfactory evidence to demonstrate completion of agreed project milestones.  The program is a 
1:1 (cash) co -investment program with business/industry.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Round 2 grant program - $109,158 allocated to 10 grant projects.  
Round 3 grant program - $20,223 allocated to 6  grant projects.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Round 2 grant program - AUD2,500 to AUD20,000 with leveraged industry funding at a ratio of 
AUD1 for each AUD1 grant.  
Round 2 grant program - AUD1,000 to AUD15,000 with leveraged industry funding at a ratio of  
AUD1 for each AUD1 grant.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Four year commitment where 4 grant rounds have been offered to the South Australian food and 
beverage sectors.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data p ermitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.4  Innovation Voucher Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Innovation Voucher Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The program aims to stimulate innovation in small -to-medium enterprises (SMEs) through 
collaboration with public and private research providers to develop new manufactured products or 
processes and drive productivity and business profitability . 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The IVP commenced in October 2012.  It is an initiative of the Department of State Development.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is paid as a grant to research service provider.   
 
6. To whom and how the su bsidy is provided  
 
Vouchers of between AUD10,000 and up to AUD50,000 are awarded on a competitive basis to 
eligible research and development projects that partner with SMEs with an annual turnover of less 
than AUD200 million.  SMEs are required to provide a  financial contribution to the project which is 
determined by annual turnover.   
 
The IVP is a competitive program.  Eligibility and selection criteria are set out in the Application 
Guidelines,  which  may be accessed  at: 
http://www.dmitre.sa.gov.au/manufacturing_works/programs_and_initiatives/innovation_voucher
_program . 
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Vouchers of between AUD10,000 and up to AUD50,000 are awarded on a competitive basis.  A total 
of AUD394,790 was paid in 2015 /16 to 9 successful applicants and AUD659,983 in 2016/17 to 
15 successful applicants.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The IVP program is on -going.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment  of trade effects is available.  
 
15.5  Business Transformation Voucher Program (BTVP)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Business Transformation Voucher Program (BTVP) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective a nd/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The program aims to support local industry with engaging services of specialist consultants to 
assist them review, develop and implement plans to improve their productivity and 
competitiveness.  
 
4. Background and authority for  the subsidy  
 
The BTVP commenced in May 2014.  It is an initiative of the Department of State Development.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is paid as a grant to eligible businesses.   
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Grants of up to AUD50 ,000 are awarded to eligible companies on a competitive basis matched 1:1.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants of up to AUD50,000 are awarded on a competitive basis matched 1:1 on eligible 
expenditure. A total of AUD1,569,750 was paid in 2015/16 and AUD 942,988 in 2016/17.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Funding for the BTVP program ceased 30 June 2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.6  Automotive Supplier Diversification Program (ASDP)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Automotive Supplier Diversification Program (ASDP) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The program aims to assist eligible automotive supply chain companies to diversify and secure 
alternative revenue streams for a sustainable future.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The ASDP commenced in 2013/14.  It is a Cabinet approved initiative . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is paid as a grant to eligible businesses.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Amounts up to AUD500,000 are provided on a competitive basis matched 1:1 on eligible 
expenditure.   
 
The ASDP is a competitive pr ogram.  Eligibility and selection criteria are set out in the Application 
Guidelines,  which  may be accessed  at: 
https://statedevelopment.sa.gov.au/industry/automotive/asdp  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants of up to AUD500,000 are awarded on a competitive basis matched 1:1 on eligible 
expenditure.  A total of AUD1,632,662 was paid in 2015/16 and AUD1,185,451 in 2016/17.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Funding is available over 7 year s from 2013/14 to 2019/20.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.7  Small Business Development Fund (SBDF)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Small Business Development Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Fund aims to help small businesses in northern Adelaide to grow and create sustainable jobs.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The SBDF commenced on 1 July 2016.  It is an initiative of the Department of State Development.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is paid as a grant to eligible businesses.   
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provide d 
 
Grants of up to AUD20,000 are awarded on a competitive basis matched 1:1 to support the 
creation of new small businesses in northern Adelaide and grants between AUD10,000 and up to 
AUD100,000 are awarded on a competitive basis matched 1:1 to help fund b usiness expansion 
that will create multiple direct on -going jobs.   
 
The SBDF is a competitive program.  Eligibility and selection criteria are set out in the Application 
Guidelines, which may be accessed at: https://business.sa.gov.au/Grants -and-support -
services/Grants/Small -Business -Development -Fund.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants of between AUD10,000 and up to AUD100,000 are awarded on a competitive basis to 
existing eligible businesses and up to AUD20 ,000 for new eligible businesses.  A total of 
AUD3,385,157 was paid in 2016/17.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Funding for the ASDP program is over three years from 2016/17 to 2018/19.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.8  Premiers Research and Industry Fund (PRIF)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Premiers Research and Industry Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Fund aims to support South Australia 's research community to compete successfully on a 
national and global scale.  The fund will encourage investment in key science and research areas 
that h ave potential to generate significant economic, social and/or environmental benefits for the 
State.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The PRIF commenced in 2012 and was previously called the Premiers Science and Research Fund.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is paid as a grant to eligible organisations.   
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Grants of up to AUD1 million per annum are awarded on a competitive basis to eligible research 
organisations.   
 
The PRIF is a competitive progr am. Eligibility and selection criteria are set out in the Application 
Guidelines, which may be accessed at: http://innovation.sa.gov.au/program -guidelines -2017/  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants of up to AUD1 million pa are awarded on a competitive bas is. A total of AUD6,758,905 was 
paid in 2015/16 and AUD4,096,884 in 2016/17.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The PRIF is on -going.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effec ts is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  15.9  Economic Investment Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Economic Investment Fund.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Lead and coordinate across government inward investment attraction activity and seek and 
establish investment across major industry sectors.  Attract new investors and businesses to South 
Australia creating new jobs, investment and Economic benefit to the state.  
 
4. Background and au thority for the subsidy  
 
The Economic Investment Fund commenced on 1 October 2015 with any funds expended under 
the Economic Investment Fund being appropriated under the budget of the Department of State 
Development.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance can  take the form of grants and concessional loans.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Applications are assessed on a case -by-case basis.  Incentive packages are based on an 
assessment of the net economic benefits (increases in employment, increase in investment and 
the introduction of new technologies), the long -term viability of the project and the strategic 
importance of the project to the State.  
 
An amount of AUD100,000 was paid in 2015/16 to one organisation and AUD6.069 million in 
2016/17 to si x organisations.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Grants and loans are available to businesses to assist expansion, investment or re location of their 
businesses to the State.  Each application is accessed on its merits.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Economic Investment Fund is a time limited program.  Assistance to companies is time -
specific, agreed upon between the proponent and Investment Attraction South Australia.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical da ta permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
15.10   South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program  
The AUD265 million South Australian River Murray Sustainability (SARMS) Program is funded by 
the Australian Government and is being delivered b y the State over six years to mid -2019.  SARMS 
is supporting the sustainability of South Australian River Murray communities through investment 
in irrigation efficiencies, water returns, irrigation industry assistance and regional economic 
development, incl uding the redevelopment of the Loxton Research Centre. The Program will return 
40 gigalitres of water to the River Murray system and is contributing towards South Australia 's 
implementation of the Basin Plan.  
 
SARMS comprises two main areas of investment - AUD240 million for the Irrigation Industry 
Improvement Program (3IP), and AUD25 million for Regional Economic Development.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  (i) South Australian River Murray  Sustainability Program (SARMS) Irrigation Industry 
Improvement Program (3IP)  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (SARMS) Irrigation Industry Improvement 
Program (3IP).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led com petitive grant program is recovering water savings generated from water 
recovery and eligible irrigation infrastructure upgrade projects undertaken by irrigation 
infrastructure operators and individual irrigators.  These projects improve the efficiency and 
productivity of water use and management, both off and on -farm, helping to secure a sustainable 
future for irrigation communities.  
 
The 3IP is comprised of three elements being:  
 The South Australian River Murray Irrigation Efficiency element (up to $80 million)  
 The South Australian Government Water Purchase element (up to $40 million)  
 The South Australian Government Irrigation Industry Assistance element (up to 
$120 million).  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
This AUD240 million State -led prog ram is funded under the National Partnership Agreement on 
South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (Part A) and National Partnership Agreement 
on South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (Part B).  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is  provided through a funding agreement between the State and successful applicant. 
A comprehensive, competitive assessment process is undertaken for all projects prior to the 
approval of government funding. The water savings are delivered to the State and t ransferred to 
the Commonwealth in line with milestones under the National Partnership Agreement.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the State and the successful grant 
applicant.  Four public  calls for application were conducted.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Four rounds were conducted.  Successful applicants were offered on average around AUD1.21 
million.  It should be noted that as part of the grant requirements, a portion of the project wat er 
savings in the form of water entitlements are transferred to the State and then to the 
Commonwealth in line with National Partnership Agreement milestones for environmental use.  
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
64.5 36.7 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program opened in December 2013.  The program has funding to 2018/2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
(ii) South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (SARMS) Regional Development and 
Innovation Fund (RDIF)  
 
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (SARMS) Regional Development and 
Innovation Fund (RDIF).  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/16 and 2016/17.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
This State -led competitive grant program provides funding to non -irrigators within the South 
Australian River Murray region.  This AUD12.5 million fund is for projects that support regional 
development, employment opportunities and economic diversification in the region and forms part 
of the Regional Economic Development Investment under SARMS . 
4. Background and Authority for the sub sidy 
 
This AUD12.5 million State -led program is funded under the National Partnership Agreement on 
South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (Part A) and National Partnership Agreement 
on South Australian River Murray Sustainability Program (Par t B). 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the State and successful applicant. 
A comprehensive competitive assessment process is undertaken for all projects prior to the 
approval of government funding.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided through a funding agreement between the State and the successful grant 
applicant.  Three public calls for application were conducted.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Four rounds were conducted.  Successful applicants were offered on average around 
AUD0.65  million.   
 
Actual Expenditure  
 
2015/2016  2016/2017  
AUDmillion  AUDmillion  
3.4 4.2 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Round 1 of the program opened in June 2014.  The program has funding to 2017/2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  15.11   Future Jobs Fund  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Future Jobs Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Subsidy announced on 22  June 2017 as part of the 2017/18 State Budget.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
The purpose of the Future Jobs Fund is to provide support for the development of globally 
competitive industries and industrial capabilities that will create jo bs of the future in 
South  Australia following the closure of the car manufacturing industry.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
The Future Jobs fund was announced on 22 June 2017 as part of the 2017 -18 State Budget.  
The fund comprises of AUD50 milli on of grants and AUD70 million of low interest loans.  The 
funding includes support for the development of business cases in support of  Future Jobs Fund 
grant and/or loan applications.  
 
Applications were sought from businesses and non -government organisatio ns including service 
providers and research and education institutions to create ongoing jobs in South Australia.  
Sectors and industrial capabilities include – ship building and defence; renewable energy and 
mining; tourism, food and wine; health and biome dical research; and information technology and 
advance manufacturing.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Business case support grants reimbursable up to AUD50,000 to support applications for a grant 
and/or loan, with the applicant contributing matching funds of at leas t the amount of business 
case grant sought.  
 
Grants  reimbursable up to AUD5 million, applicants providing a matching component of at least 
the amount of the grant sought.  Grant funding provided in a phased approach based on pre -
agreed milestones of the pro ject. 
 
Loan (low interest)  of up to AUD10 million towards the cost of expanding an entity 's operations 
where additional ongoing jobs are created. Loans provided over a 2 -7 year term and available to 
be drawn down as performance milestones, including expend iture and job creation, are achieved.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Available to businesses and non -government organisations, including service providers and 
research and education institutions, where the organisation can be regarded as being lo cated in 
South Australia and ongoing jobs will be created in South Australia as a result of the grant or loan.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
Business case support grant  – maximum AUD50,000  
 
Grant  - Maximum per proposal AUD5 million, minimum per proposal AUD100,000  
 
Loan  - Maximum per proposal AUD10 million, minimum per proposal AUD100,000  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Project commencement prior to 30 June 2018.  Assistance provided by this fund is not intended to 
be ongoing.  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade is available.  
 
15.12   Job Accelerator Grant Scheme  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Job Accelerator Grant Scheme .  
 
2. Period covered  by the notification  
 
Financial years 2016/2017 and 2017/2018.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Assist the creation of new jobs within small -to-medium businesses.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Scheme started from 1 July 2016 and applies to new additional jobs created until 
30 June 2018.  
 
RevenueSA administers the scheme through the statutory powers of the Treasurer.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The scheme provides grants to eligible employers who increase their employment level and 
maintain that level for a minimum period.  An initial payment is available at the first anniversary of 
a registered increase in employment and a second payment is available at the second anniversary.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is p rovided  
 
There are two grants available:  
Job Accelerator Grant – available for businesses liable for payroll tax in South Australia with total 
taxable wages less than or equal to AUD5,000,000.  This grant is provided to businesses that 
increase and maintain  their FTE level.  
Job Accelerator Grant for Small Businesses and Start -ups – available for businesses not liable for 
payroll tax including because their wages are below the tax -free threshold of AUD600,000.  
This grant is provided to those businesses that increase and maintain the number of employees 
working an average of 22 hours or more per week.  
Employers will be eligible for the grants if:  
 a person is employed (full time, part -time or casual) in a position that is a new job; and  
 the employment commenced  on or after 1 July 2016; and  
 the employment is maintained for the duration of each claim period; and  
 the services of the employee are performed wholly or mainly in SA (>50 per cent); and  
 the employment is not excluded from the scheme.  
The grant is general ly paid by EFT to the employer.  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Job Accelerator Grant provides AUD5000 per additional FTE employed or AUD7500 per 
additional FTE apprentice or trainee employed, on both the first and second anniversary of the 
increase in employment (a total of up to AUD15,000).  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  The Job Accelerator Grant for Small Businesses and Start -ups provides AUD2000 per additional 
eligible position created or AUD4500 where that position is filled by an apprentice or trainee, on 
both the first and seco nd anniversary of the increase in employment (a total of up to AUD9,000).  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy is provided as a grant in two installments, after the first and second anniversaries of 
employment.  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessme nt of the trade effects  
 
No statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects are available.   
 
16  TASMANIA  
16.1  Investment Attraction and Industry Development Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Investment Attraction and Industry Development Program.*  
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
Aimed at the development of a strong and innovative business culture resulting in increased 
investment and job creation; the att raction of new investment to the State; increased 
infrastructure development; stimulating innovation and business development and increased local, 
national and international opportunities for business in Tasmania.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsi dy 
 
The legislative basis is the Tasmanian Development Act 1983  with any funds expended under the 
Investment Attraction and Industry Development Program being appropriated under the budget of 
the Department of State Growth.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance can take the form of grants, concessional loans, payroll tax subsidies, rental subsidies, 
and/or stamp duty subsidies.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Applications are assessed on a case -by-case basis.  Incentive packages are based o n an 
assessment of the net economic benefits (for example, increases in employment, increase in 
investment and the introduction of new technologies), the long -term viability of the project and 
the strategic importance of the project to the State.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
See the table above for the aggregated State expenditure and the estimated number of firms 
assisted for the financial year 2015/2016 and financial year 2016/2017.   
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Investment Attraction and Industry De velopment Program is ongoing.  Assistance to 
companies is time -specific, agreed upon between the proponent and the Department of State 
Growth.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment o f trade effects is available.  
 
16.2  Tasmanian Government Innovation and Investment Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Tasmanian Government Innovation and Investment Fund (TGIIF) . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy  Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
TGIIF aimed to assist Tasmanian businesses (or groups of eligible businesses) to invest in 
innovative projects that will significantly improve their sustainability, performance, growth and 
productivity.  The intenti on is to generate new investment and create sustainable high quality, 
skilled jobs that help diversify and strengthen Tasmania 's regional economy.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The legislative basis is the Tasmanian Development Act 1983  with any funds expended under 
TGIIF being appropriated under the budget of the Department of State Growth.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants provided on a competitive, merit basis to Tasmanian businesses.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible  Tasmanian businesses, with funding provided against the achievement of agreed 
milestones.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms/Projects  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  
 AUD 412,908  1 General  
2016/2017  0 0 General  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The TGIIF ran from 1 July 2012 to 1 November 2013.  Expenditures continued to be incurred 
beyond those dates in line with progress claims on approved projects.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.3  Intensive Animal Farming Industry Development  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Intensive Animal Farming Industry Development -Pigs and Eggs Grant Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
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  3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Tasmanian Government announced in the 2012/13 budget a commitment of AUD2.5  million to 
increase the ability of Tasmanian producers engaged in intensive animal farming to respond to 
market trends that indicate consumers are increasingly sensitive to animal welfare issues.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Intensive Animal Farming Development Grant Program provideD financial assistance to 
commercia l egg farming businesses to facilitate the transitioning from caged egg to non -caged egg 
production systems and increase egg production from non -caged systems.  
 
The Intensive Animal Farming Development Grant Program provideD financial assistance to 
commerc ial pig farming businesses to facilitate the restricted use of sow gestation stalls.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grant.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible Tasmanian egg and pig producers  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding prov ided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is summarised in the following 
table.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  
 310,360  2 Intensive animal 
farming -pigs and eggs  
2016/2017  - - - 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The program was implemented mainly 2013/14 and 2014/15 financial years and was finalised 
in 2015-16. 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.4  Wood and F ibre Processing Innovation Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Wood and Fibre Processing Innovation Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Wood and Fibre Processing Innovation Program is an initiative of the Tasmanian Government 
to facilitate greater commercial utilisation of Timber Harvesting and Processing By -Products and 
Agricultural Plant Residues . 
 
4. Background and authority for the sub sidy 
 
The Tasmanian Government commissioned a Residues Solutions Study to identify, and assess the 
potential application in Tasmania of, alternative technologies to increase the utilisation of forest G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  harvesting and processing residues.  The study recognised  that there is considerable opportunity to 
utilise a broader range of plant fibre arising from agriculture, which is otherwise waste, for energy 
purposes.  
 
The Tasmanian Government has committed AUD1.25 million to provide funding support for the 
developme nt and implementation of projects that utilise biomass to create value -added products in 
Tasmania.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants provided on a competitive merit basis, with individual grants capped at AUD100 000.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provid ed 
 
The Program was publically advertised and Expressions of Interest were sought from parties 
interested in participating in the program.  All applications were assessed against eligibility and 
merit criteria.  Funding was made available to successful appli cants through a Grant Deed, which 
specifies conditions of the grant and performance requirements.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding provided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is summarised in the table 
below.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  
 0 0 Forestry  
2016/2017  AUD851 352  12 Forestry  
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The Program commenced in August 2016.  Assistance to companies is time -specific, and subject to 
satisfaction of specified performance criteria, agreed upon between the proponent and the 
Department of State Growth.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.5  Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndro me Recovery Concessional Loan Scheme  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS) Recovery Concessional Loan Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The POMS Recovery Concessional Loan Scheme is an initiative of the Tasmanian Government 
providing low interest loans to oyster growers, nurseries and hatcheries that have been affected by 
POMS, as indicated by the Department of Primary Industries,  Parks, Water and  Environment.  
 
The Loan Scheme, announced by the Minister for Primary Industries and Water on 4 April 2016, 
provided a loan pool of up to AUD5 million to offer loans ranging from AUD30 000 to AUD250  000. 
 
4. Background and authority for th e subsidy  
 
The Loan Scheme is in response to an outbreak of POMS at several oyster farms in Tasmania 
during January 2016.   G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Low interest rate loan.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible Tasmanian oyster farmers.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding provided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is summarised in the following 
table.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  
 0 0 Oyster farmers  
2016/2017  AUD1 250 000  5 Oyster farmers  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The Loan Scheme was opened from April 2016 until December 2016.  It was reopened in April 2017 
and will remain open until May 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical dat a permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.6  Vineyard and Orchard Expansion Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Vineyard and Orchard Expansion Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Vineyard and Orchard Expansion Program offered an interest rebate (grant) for three years on 
commercial loans to support the expansion or establishment of vineyards or orchards in Tasmania.  
 
4. Background and Au thority for the subsidy  
 
The Program is an initiative of the Tasmanian Government to stimulate growth in the wine and 
fruit sectors. Grants are administered by the Department of State Growth.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grant.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To approved vineyards and orchards who met the eligibility criteria and selection criteria.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
During 2015/16 and 2016/17, a total of AUD139  805 was paid out to seven recipients – an 
average of AUD19  972 per  recipient.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The program commenced in April 2013 and will conclude in June 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.7  AgriGrowth Concessional Loan Scheme  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
AgriGrowth Concessional Loan Scheme . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The AgriGrowth  Concessional Loan Scheme is an initiative of the Tasmanian Government providing 
low interest loans to Tasmanian farm businesses and agri -food businesses.  It supports projects 
that advance the Government's Agrivision 2050 plan, which aims to increase the v alue of the 
agriculture and agri -food sectors  in Tasmania.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Loan Scheme provides financial assistance to Tasmanian farm businesses and agri -food 
businesses, where the majority of business is conducted in Tas mania.  Eligible purposes include:  
 
 developing an innovative agribusiness initiative that has a long lead time until income is 
generated;  
 starting a new enterprise or expanding an existing enterprise; or  
 implementing Productivity or Value Enhancement Activities;  
that otherwise could not be brought forward and/or financed under normal banking arrangements.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Low interest rate loan.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible Tasmanian farmers who must be able to demon strate capacity to repay the loan in five 
years or through successfully obtaining commercial refinance.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding provided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is summarised in the following 
table.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  AUD1 027 054  5 Farmers  
2016/2017  AUD4 085 308  14 Farmers  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The Loan Scheme opened in August 2015 and has been extended following a review in July 2016, 
with a further review of the Scheme to be undertaken by September 2018.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.8  Advanced Manufacturing Transition Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Advance d Manufacturing Transition Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Transition Fund is an initiative of the Tasmanian Government 
providing funds to Tasmanian businesses to assist the facilitation of significant projects with the 
potential to generate immediate and ongoing economic activity and jo bs in the Advanced 
Manufacturing sector in the north -west and northern regions of Tasmania.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Transition Fund was established under the Caterpillar Transition 
Taskforce, which was creat ed in response to an announcement by Caterpillar Global Underground 
Mining that it would relocate parts of its Tasmanian manufacturing operations to Thailand.   
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants were made on a competitive merit basis to eligible Tasmanian bus inesses.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible north western and northern Tasmanian manufacturing businesses or supporting 
institutions.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding provided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is su mmarised in the following 
table.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  
 AUD1 050 834  5 Advanced manufacturing  
2016/2017  AUD506 965  6 Advanced manufacturing  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The program commenced in July 2015 and  was completed in February 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
16.9  Advanced Manufacturing Market Expansion Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Advanced Man ufacturing Market Expansion Program . 
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial year 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Advanced Manufacturing Market Expansion Program is designed to enable Tasmanian 
advanced manufacturing enterprises to undertake market development activities to establish new 
markets.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Program was a key initiative of the Tasmanian Government 's Advanced Manufacturing Action 
Plan, which was public ly released in June 2016.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grants provided on a competitive merit basis to eligible Tasmanian businesses, with individual 
grants capped at AUD10 000.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To eligible Tasmanian small and mediu m sized advanced manufacturing enterprises.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding provided during 2015/2016 and 2016/2017 financial years is summarised in the table 
below.  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Firms  Industry Sector  
2015/2016  0 0 Advanced manufacturing  
2016/2017  AUD64 146  11 Advanced manufacturing  
The Program provides a reimbursement of up to 50 per cent of approved expenses for the 
development of new markets to a maximum of AUD10 000 per activity.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy   
 
The Program commenced in August 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17  VICTORIA  
17.1  Investment Attraction and Assistance Program (IAAP) and the Investme nt Support 
Program (ISP)  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Investment Attraction and Assistance Program (IAAP) and the Investment Support Program (ISP)*  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  A fund to attract strategic and footloose investment, including investments in key Government 
priority areas, including the growth of future industries and facilitation of targeted investment 
opportunities to alleviate difficulties in locations with high levels of social disadvantage.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The IAAP was announced in the 2015/16 Budget.  The ISP was launched in 1993.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grant.   
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is prov ided 
 
Funding for investment attraction is provided to an eligible entity on a case -by-case basis.   
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
See above table for the aggregated expenditure and the estimated number of firms assisted for 
financial years 2015/2016 and 20 16/2017.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
IAAP to June 2018; ISP is ongoing.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17.2  Grow Your Business  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Grow Your Business . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
Grow Your Business provided funding for small to medium enterprises to develop business plans  
and strategies.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Grow Your Business was launched in the early 1990s.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grant  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding to eligible entities on a competitive basis.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The program provides grants of up to 75 per cent of eligible project expenditure to a maximum 
grant of AUD15,000.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Grow Your Business is currently suspended but it is an ongoing program.  
 
9. Statistica l data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17.3  Small Business SuccessMap  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Small Business SuccessMap  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial y ears 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
Small Business SuccessMap was designed to stimulate growth and resilience in small business by 
providing targeted assistance to small businesses to access targeted assistance.   
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Small Business SuccessMap was launched in December 2012.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grant  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Assistance was available to Victorian small to medium businesses (5 -50 staff)  with growth 
aspirations. The assistance was delivered through a panel of business development specialists.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The program provides grants of up to 90% of eligible project expenditure to a maximum grant of 
AUD9,000  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Small Business SuccessMap was closed in 2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17.4  Sector Growth Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Sector  Growth Program . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Sector Growth Program provides grant funding for projects designed to support the Future  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 90 - 
 
  Industries S ector Strategies to create new jobs for Victorians, drive growth, productivity and 
competitiveness of Victorian firms and encourage collaboration between organisations.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Sector Growth Program is a program un der the Future Industries Fund. The Future Industries 
Fund is an election commitment under the State Government 's Back to Work  plan. 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grants  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided to an eligible enti ty through a competitive process.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit   
 
Two Streams of grant funding:  
 Stream 1 – up to $100k for scoping, planning or feasibility studies  
 Stream 2 – up to $1m for implementation projects  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
To June 2019  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17.5  Future Industries Manufacturing Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Future Industries Manufacturing Program  
2. Period c overed by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Future Industries Manufacturing Program assists companies that are intending to implement 
new manufacturing technologies in their V ictorian operations and that will provide a critical 
foundation for generating local jobs, improving productivity and international competitiveness and 
targeting growth opportunities.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Future Industries Manu facturing Program is a program under the Future Industries Fund. The 
Future Industries Fund is an election commitment under the State Government 's Back to 
Work plan 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct Grants  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided to an eligible entity through a competitive process.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The program provides grants of up to 25% of eligible project expenditure to a maximum grant of 
AUD500,000.  
 AUD18 million has been allocated to the program to date.  
 AUD7 million had been committed to eligible companies as at 30 June 2017  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
To June 2019  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade  effects is available  
 
17.6  Local Industry Fund for Transition  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Local Industry Fund for Transition  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The AUD45.1 million Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) supports investment by businesses 
leading directly to new sustainable jobs in regions affected by the announced closures of the three 
major car manufacturers (Ford, Holden and Toyota) in Victoria.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
LIFT is part of the Victorian Government 's Towards Future Industries: Victoria 's Automotive 
Transition Plan . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct grants  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provide d to an eligible entity through a competitive process.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The program provides grants of up to 25 per cent of eligible project expenditure, with a maximum 
grant of AUD2 million.   
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program is expe cted to close in June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  17.7  Automotive Supply Chain Transition Program (ADCTP)  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Automotive Supply Chain Transition Program (ASCTP)  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial Years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The ASCTP provides intensive tailored business capability assistance to Victorian b usinesses in the 
automotive supply chain to guide them through the transition period following the ceasing of car 
manufacturing in Victoria and Australia.  Services include business transition services and merger 
advisory services.  
 
4. Background and Author ity for the subsidy  
 
The ASCTP is part of the Victorian Government 's Towards Future Industries: Victoria 's Automotive 
Transition Plan  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The ASCTP uses a voucher subsidy model, where grant funds are paid to the supplier not the 
applicant company.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Eligible companies are Victorian businesses with at least 10 per cent of revenue derived from new 
car manufacturing by the three local car manufacturers (Ford, Holden and Toyota) and their supply 
chain.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Eligible companies may receive up to AUD142,000 via two program streams:  
 AUD16,000  Business Transition Plan Stream (capped  at AUD32,000)  
 AUD55,000  Business Transition Services Stream (capped at AUD110,000)  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
ASCTP opened for applications on 7 December 2015 and closed on 2 March 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an amount of trade effects is available at this stage.  
 
17.8  New Energy Jobs Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
New Energy Jobs Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 93 - 
 
  3. Policy Objective  and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The AUD20 million New Energy Jobs Fund  is designed to support Victorian -based projects that 
create long -term sustainable jobs, increase the uptake of renewable energy generation, reduce 
greenhouse gas emissions and drive innovation in new energy technologies.  
 
4. Background and Authority for t he subsidy  
 
The New Energy Jobs Fund is part of the Victorian Government 's Future Industries strategy. 
Funding for the program is provided via the Future Industries Fund, administered by the 
Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources .  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Direct Grants  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The New Energy Jobs Fund is a competitive grants process, where proponents submit applications 
for funding.  The level of subsidy provided varies project. Round 1 of the program closed in March 
2016 and supported 24 individual projects.  Round 2 of the program closed in March 2017 and 
supported 21 individual projects.  Round 3 of the program closed in March 2018 – it is outside the 
scope of this reporting.  
 
7. Level of subsi dy per unit  
 
Investment in Rounds 1 and 2 is given below:  
 
2015/16:  AUD5.9 million   
2016/17:  AUD6.8 million  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The third and final round of the program has recently closed (1 March 2018).  No further grants are 
expected to be provided through the New Energy Jobs Fund beyond the end of this round.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects is available.  
 
17.9  Boosting Business Productivity  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Boosting Business Productivity .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2016/17, 2017/18 and 2018/19. Opened October 2016.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
To assist businesses to reduce costs and boo st productivity by improving energy and materials 
efficiency, and reusing or avoiding waste.  Supporting businesses to access expert advice and 
support needed to cut energy and materials costs, reduce greenhouse emissions, and improve 
energy productivity.   
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Victorian Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change approved the grant program.   
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Matched -funding (AUD1:$AUD) for businesses to access specialist energy and materials efficienc y 
consultants.  Matched -funding (AUD1:AUD1) for businesses to upgrade gas equipment.  
Funding intermediaries / industry associations to complete training and mentoring activities.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Provided to all sizes of businesses that spend more than AUD20,000 per year on energy.  Paid 
evidence that specified activities have been completed (such as engaging an energy efficiency 
specialist or installing new equipment).  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Energy Assessment Gran ts: AUD538,000 allocated to 70 businesses (budget AUD1.37m)  
Gas Efficiency Grants:   AUD507,000 allocated to 11 businesses (budget AUD2m)  
Materials Efficiency Grants:  AUD86,000 allocated to 22 businesses (budget AUD575,000)  
Business Capability Grants:  AUD63 7,000 allocated to 6 industry associations (budget 
AUD700,000)  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Opened October 2016. Closes September 2018.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of the  trade effects is available.  
 
17.10   Regional Jobs & Infrastructure Fund (RJIF)  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Regional Jobs & Infrastructure Fund . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund (RJIF) is the Victorian Government 's overarching 
regional development package.  It invests in growing jobs, building infrastructure and 
strengthening communities in regional Victoria.  Within this AUD500m fund there is capacity for 
private businesses to apply for subsidies that deliver outcomes in line with the Fund 's objectives.  
 
The objectives are the Fund:  
 
 Create jobs of the future and diversify the regional employment base  
 Improve productivity and enha nce the long term competitiveness of regional Victoria 
through innovation and a transition to new growth opportunities  
 Create the conditions for business growth by enhancing workforce skills, providing 
enabling economic infrastructure and facilitating expa nsion into new markets  
 Improve the liveability of our cities, centres and towns to attract and retain families and 
young people to live and work  
 Enhance community capacity through collaboration, leadership development and 
regional planning  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 95 - 
 
  4. Background a nd Authority for the subsidy  
 
This four year Fund covering the period 2015 -2019 was launched on 1 July 2015.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The Regional Jobs & infrastructure Fund includes the provision of merit based grants to private 
businesses that meet the eligibility criteria of the fund.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding is provided to an eligible entity on a case -by-case basis.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Regional Jobs & Infrastructure Fund is a $500m fund that has a range of eli gibility criteria for 
the various program streams within the Fund. This includes grants to private businesses.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Fund runs from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is yet available.  
 
17.11   Regional Tourism & Infrastructure Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Regional Tourism & Infrastructure Fund . 
  
2. Period covered by the notification   
  
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2 016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
The Victorian Government has established the AUD103 million Regional Tourism Infrastructure 
Fund (RTIF) to help grow and realise the potential of regional Victoria 's visitor economy which 
attrac ts more than 14 million domestic and international visitors every year.  
The RTIF 's main objectives are to:  
 increase visitation to regional Victoria and visitor yield by supporting strategic projects;  
 boost regional tourism investment; and  
 drive new jobs across regional Victoria in the tourism sector.  
The RTIF is a pathway to accelerate delivery of regional Victoria 's high value tourism projects 
identified through a regional tourism pipeline.  RTIF funds high value projects that activate, create 
or redevelop tourism assets that demonstrate a significant impact on the visitor economy.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
The fund was launched in December 2015.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
The Fund provides opportunities for merit based grants to  private businesses that meet the 
eligibility criteria of the fund.  
 G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
- 96 - 
 
  6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funding was open to applications, including private businesses from prioritised projects that have 
been through an initial evaluation process t hrough a tourism pipeline.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
The Regional Tourism & Infrastructure Fund is a AUD103m fund that has eligibility criteria in line 
with the objectives of the Fund.  In particular, the Fund focuses on projects that attract increased  
visitors to the region, increase visitor yield, deliver an improved experience for those who visit and 
reside in regional Victoria and stimulate increased private sector investment.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The Fund was launched in December 2015 and i s currently closed for applications.  
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is yet available.  
 
17.12   Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund .  
  
2. Period covered by the notification   
  
Financial year 2016/2017.  
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
The LVEFF is seeking to attract and facilitate business investment into the Latrobe Valley through 
three key 'fund streams ' supporting:  
Growing existing businesses – with a focus on business competitiveness and innovation, including 
a focus on existing Latrobe Valley businesses, the small to medium business sector (SME 's) and 
supply chains;  
Investment attraction – helping new businesses to locate in the Latrobe Valley; and  
Market access - growing the capability and identifying new global markets for products and 
services.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
AUD40 million was secured from  the 2016/17 State Budget for the Latrobe Valley Economic 
Development Program (LVEDP), with the AUD10 million Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund 
(LVEFF) operational by July 2016.   
  
5. Form of the subsidy  
  
Grants are made on a competitive, merit -based basis to businesses based in Latrobe Valley and 
businesses seeking to locate in Latrobe Valley.  
  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
Funding is provided against the achievement of key milestones.  LVEFF has assisted 17 businesses 
to grow their  operations, creating 322 jobs.  
  G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
  
LVEFF has total funding of AUD10 million.  
  
8. Duration of the subsidy  
  
LVEFF is a four year initiative and will end by FY 2019 -20. 
  
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
17.13   Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program  
1. Title of Subsidy  
  
Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
Finan cial year 2016/2017.  
  
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
  
The Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program (LVSCTP) is a fund of up to AUD5 million that 
will provide intensive tailored support to businesses in the Latrobe Valley supply chain to guide 
them through the transition period as Hazelwood Power Station and Mine and Carter Holt Harvey 
Saw Mill close.  
The LVSCTP is focused on retaining industry capability and jobs in the Latrobe Valley that might 
otherwise be lost due to the Hazel wood and Carter Holt Harvey closures.  
The LVSCTP is part of the Victorian Government 's AUD40 million  Latrobe Valley Economic 
Development Program  (LVED P) which targets the needs of the region and intensifies Government 's 
efforts to support its economic diversification, growth and resilience.  
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
ENGIE announced the March 2017 closure of Hazelwood Mine and Power Sta tion on November 
2016, leaving a four month window to prepare a response.  The LVSCTP, initially called the 
Hazelwood Supply Chain Transition Program, was developed as a response to the closure of the 
Hazelwood Mine and Power Station, targeting the station 's supply chain.  Application for the 
program was opened shortly after the closure of Hazelwood.  With the closure of Carter Holt 
Harvey, the program was expanded to Carter Holt Harvey 's supply chain and renamed as the 
LVSCTP.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
  
Grants  are made on a competitive, merit -based basis to businesses that are part of the supply 
chain of Hazelwood and Carter Holt Harvey.  
  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program offers two separate stages o f assistance.  
3.1.1 Business Transition Plan  
Independent Business Specialists will provide intensive support to participating companies, 
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  assistance  required. The diagnostic outcomes will then form the basis of a Business Transition 
Plan, which will be developed by the Business Specialist and the participant.  
3.1.2 Business Transition Services and Merger Advisory Services  
Business Transition Services  
At the completion of the Business Transition Plan stage, participating supply chain companies may 
be eligible to receive assistance towards business transition activities identified in their plan.  
The nature of support will depend on the outcomes identifie d in the Business Transition Plan.  
Merger Advisory Services  
Where a business merger has been identified in the Business Transition Plan as the appropriate 
course of action, support for Merger Advisory Services may be provided to maximise retention of 
indus try capability and jobs.  
Merger Advisory Services are designed to provide advice on the strategies required for a business 
merger.  
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
Total support provided for any Latrobe Valley supply chain company will be capped at AUD71,000.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
Applications for supply chain companies to enter the Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition 
Program will open on 3 November 2016 and will close on 30 June 2018, unless funds are fully 
expended prior to that date.  All LVSCTP proj ects must be completed by 30 June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18  WESTERN AUSTRALIA  
18.1  Industry Facilitation and Support Program  
1. Title of  the subsidy  
 
Industry Facilitation and Support Program.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Program commenced in 2010 and is designed to assist Western Au stralian regionally based 
and headquartered businesses to improve their competitiveness and/or capacity to service the 
resources industry and the public sector market.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The program was approved by the Minister r esponsible for the Industry and Technology 
Development Act 1998 and is administered by the former Department of Industry and Resources.  
From January 2009, the program was administered by the Department of Commerce.  
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Applicants can c laim up to 50 per cent of approved eligible expenditure.  The maximum amounts to 
be claimed ranged between AUD20,000 and AUD25,000 depending on the round.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Benefits under this program have been provided to small a nd medium manufacturing and service 
businesses in Western Australia which deliver services in the resources sector and for regional 
small and medium enterprises delivering to the government market.  The benefits are aimed at 
increasing the competitiveness o f the businesses and assisting with pre -qualification for resource 
industry contracts.  
 
The following activities were eligible for funding:  temporary expert assistance for prequalification, 
improvements to internal business infrastructure; and specialist t raining.  
 
Additionally in collaboration with the Australian Steel Institute, financial assistance of 75 per cent 
of certification costs (to a maximum of $10,000) was offered to support eligible steel fabricators, 
galvanisers and finishers for the new Steelwork Fabrication and Erection Standard for Australia 
(AS/NZS 5131).  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Funding amounted to AUD554,000 in FY2015/16 and AUD482,000 in FY2016/2017.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program is ongoing.  
9. Statistical data perm itting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.2  Regional Buy Local Initiative  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Regional Buy Local Initiative . 
2. Period  covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2014 /2015 - 2015/16.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The Program commenced in 2015 and was designed to assist Western Australian regionally based 
businesses to improve their competitiveness and/or capacity through access to the relevant 
business professionals to address gaps identified through business diagnosis.  The aim was to 
maximise opportunities for regional small business and industry to be more responsive in the 
market.  
 
4. Background  and Authority for the subsidy  
 
To implement recomm endations contained in the Regional Buy Local Working Report, ensuring 
that government agencies delivered on the then State Government 's commitment to support and 
grow small to medium sized businesses.  
 
The initiative which was part of the Regional Buy Loc al Initiative is the responsibility of the Small 
Business Development Corporation.  
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Applicants were eligible for direct, subsidised access to business professionals, including but not 
limited to, consultants, lawyers, accountants, busi ness advisors and online business specialists to 
assist in building their capacity.  The assistance was provided on a dollar for dollar matching 
principle up to the value of AUD5,000 per applicant.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The facilitation of access to business professionals was about improving local industry participation 
outcomes.   
 
The program was designed to support activities which assisted Western Australian regionally based 
businesses to improve and increase their engagement, capacity  and competitiveness with markets 
in Western Australia.  
 
7. Level of subsidy  per unit  
 
The assistance was provided on a dollar for dollar matching principle up to the value of AUD5,000 
per applicant.  In total, 103 regional small businesses accessed the subsi dised assistance program, 
to the value of AUD265,000. The average amount of funds applied for by these businesses was 
just over AUD2,500.  
 
8. Duration  of the subsidy  
 
The program ran through to 31 May 2016.  
 
9. Statistical  data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.3  Marine Stewardship Council Certification  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Marine Stewardship Council certification.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
To demonstrate WA fisheries are fished and managed sustainably, and to enhance/maintain 
market access for WA commercial fisheries.  Specifically, t o fund the cost of WA 's commercial 
fisheries (wild fishery harvest) achieving the Marine Stewardship Council environmental standard.  
 
The Cabinet decision also allocated funding to the Department of Fisheries to provide Policy, 
Compliance and Research sup port for the assessments.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
Changing worldwide trends of increasing environmental concern about the state of fisheries and 
the potential impact of market access led the WA Cabinet to facilitate independent third party 
certification of WA 's commercial fisheries.  In 2012 the WA Cabinet approved the initiative, and 
allocated AUD14.5 m for the project.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Government funds the full cost of the independent Conformity Assessment Bodies (CAB) 
underta king the pre -assessment, full assessment and first annual surveillance audit. Subsequently G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  industry must fully fund the surveillance audits in years 2 -4 and the 5 year re -assessment and on -
going annual surveillance costs.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is  provided  
 
For pre -assessments the subsidy is provided to the CAB on the approval of the Department.  
 
For full -assessments and the first annual surveillance audit, the subsidy is provided to the CAB on 
the approval of the fishery client and the Department . 
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Subsidies for bioregional pre -assessments and fishery full assessments vary with the size and 
complexity of the fishery/fisheries and its management, but generally range from AUD50,000 to 
AUD150,000.  
 
Subsidies for the firs t annual surveillance audit range from AUD10,000 to AUD20,000.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
2012/2013 to 2017/2018 inclusive  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.4  Financial Support Payments  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Farm Business Assessment Scheme 2014 . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017  
 
3. Policy obje ctive and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
To provide financial assessment services to farm businesses in drought affected regions.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
In response to a series of poor seasons, and consistent with the Government 's commitment to 
national drought policy, a number of initiatives were introduced to assist affected businesses 
through a difficult period.  Farm and pastoral businesses in regions impacted by drought/dry 
seasons were able to access grants of up to AUD10,000 i n total for business assessment and 
implementation advice.  
 
This subsidy was intended to provide recipients in designated drought impacted regions with a 
better understanding of their business finances and options, and the ability to implement actions in 
response.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Up to AUD 5000 for an initial business assessment and up to another AUD 5000 to assist with 
professional advice to implement recommended measures.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Grants were provided to farm b usinesses that had been unable to access sufficient carry -on 
financing for their normal farming program.  
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  7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Financial Year  Expenditure  No. of Farming businesses  
2015/2016  AUD 23,245.45  5 
2016/2017  0 0 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Payments were made over the period 2015/2016.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.5  Farm Debt Mediation Scheme  
1. Title of subsidy  
 
Farm Debt Mediation Scheme.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and is ongoing  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The aim of the WA scheme is to provide primary producers and their financier 's access to 
independent  professional mediators, allowing early intervention of financial disputes by resolving 
financial problems by negotiation through voluntary mediation . 
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The Farm Finance Package, announced by the Federal Governme nt in 2014, incorporated a 
proposal for a nationally consistent approach to farm debt meditation.  On 18 May 2015, the 
Western Australian Government made a decision to implement a voluntary Farm Debt Mediation 
Scheme, to be administered by the Rural Busines s Development Corporation (RBDC) and the Small 
Business Development Corporation (SBDC).  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Support is provided by subsidising the Farm Debt Mediation services provided to the farm 
businesses.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
No direct subsidy is provided to the businesses.  Professional mediation is conducted by the SBDC 
for the RBDC.  A Memorandum of Understanding outlines the funding of the mediation services 
between the RBDC and SBDC.  Primary producers and the financier 's each pay AUD125.00 for each 
mediation.  The subsidisation occurs with the cost of case management per application being up to 
AUD3,000, which includes professional mediation sessions.  These are all provided to the applicant 
by Government at no charge above the initial mediation charge of AUD125.00 each to the 
businesses involved (Primary Producer and or Financier).  
 
7. No of applications per unit  
 
FDMS applications receipt by year  Number of applications  
2015-16 10 
2016-17 6 
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program commenced in 2015/16 and is currently under review.  The scheme will continue to 
operate until such time as the review is completed and a decision is made.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.6  Agricultural Sciences Research and Development Fund  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Grower Group Research and Development Grants  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The purpose of Grower Group Research and Development (R&D) Grants is to generate profitability 
and growth in the ag rifood sector through targeted, industry -driven R&D on key drivers of 
productivity and competitiveness, thus making a greater contribution to the State 's economy.  The 
Grants seek to stimulate collaboration innovation and growth along supply/value chains.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The Agricultural Sciences Research and Development Fund (ASRDF) was approved by the Western 
Australian State Government Cabinet in 2015.  The Business Case was focused on addressing the 
fact that export and produ ctivity growth of Western Australia 's agrifood sector has not kept pace 
with that enjoyed by many of its competitors over the past 10 years.  The 'Pathways to 
Competitiveness ' Report commissioned by the ASRDF project in 2016 clearly identified that 
Western Australia is underachieving in transforming its ingredients into products sold direct to 
consumers through retail and foodservice channels.  The Report also identified solutions and 
activities for firms, industry and government and generated key insights an d lessons towards 
achieving international competitiveness.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Grower Group Research and Development Grants are a component of the ASRDF Program. Grants 
are provided to eligible grower groups and other not -for-profit industry bodies th rough a 
competitive merit selected process.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Funds to deliver the program are provided by the Department of Regional Development to the 
Department of Agriculture and Food under a Memorandum of Understanding.  In turn, the 
Department of Agriculture and Food enters into a Funding Agreement with successful Grantees.  
 
Grants are awarded competitively on the basis of eligibility and merit criteria outlined under the 
Program Guidelines.  Applied market, product, industry, business model and investment R&D 
relevant to the broad acre cropping and livestock, irrigated agriculture, horticulture, pastoral 
production, aquaculture and food manufacturing sectors are within the scope of the Program.  
 
7. Level of subsidy pe r unit  
 
The Grower Group Grants Program will invest AUD 11.2 million over four years.  Funding allocated 
to successful applicants amounted to AUD 2.809 million in FY2015/16 and AUD 0.767 million 
in FY2016/2017.  Individual grants are provided to a maximum va lue of AUD500,000.  
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  8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
Grower Group Research and Development (R&D) Grants began in 2015/16 and will conclude in 
June 2019.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment o f trade effects is available.  
 
18.7  Magnetite Financial Assistance Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
 
Magnetite Financial Assistance Program .  
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
 
The magnetite financial assistance program (the program) was established to assist eligible 
projects in the emerging West Australian magnetite industry.  
 
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
 
The magnetite industry is new to Western Au stralia, has a high cost structure and competes with 
the lower cost large hematite projects.  The industry is also significant to the development of the 
Mid-West region of Western Australia.  The program and the guidelines for applicants was approved 
by the West Australian Government in July 2013.  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Assistance was initially available over a three -year period spanning from 9 April 2013 to 8 April 
2016 in the form of a 50 per cent, non -repayable rebate of royalties paid on magnetite produ ction.  
A two -year extension of the program was granted to the projects that qualified under the original 
program. The extended program expires on 31 March 2018.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
To receive the assistance under the program the magnetite must be mined in Western Australia, 
the project must have its commercial production of magnetite from Western Australia after 
9 April 2013 and the resource being mined for the project must be predominantly magnetite.  New 
magnetite projects were i nvited to apply for up to 50 per cent rebate of the royalty paid in the 
12 month period from the project 's first shipment of magnetite.  Under the extended program, the 
projects that qualified under the original program continue to receive the assistance un til 31 March 
2018.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
A royalty of 5 per cent of the magnetite value is payable.  The financial assistance under the 
program is 50 per cent of the royalty that is paid for the relevant period.  
 
8. Duration  
 
1 July 2015 to 30 June  2017.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
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  18.8  Financial Assistance for Junior Iron Ore Miners  
1. Title of the subsidy  
Financial assistance for junior iro n ore miners . 
2. Period covered by the notification   
Rebates from December quarter 2014 to September quarter 2015. Repayment period September 
quarter 2015 to September quarter 2017 . 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To assist junior iron ore mine rs adjust costs and maintain production and employment after a 
sudden, large drop in the iron ore price.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Sudden, large fall in iron ore prices meant margin for junior iron ore producers were slim.  
The rebate allowed  producers time to lower costs. The rebate was authorised through the Minister 
for Mines and Petroleum.  
5. Form of the subsidy   
50 per cent rebate of royalties payable . 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Royalties were paid by two companies and then 50 per cent was rebated upon application each 
quarter . 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
50 per cent of royalty.  Repayable over 8 quarters . 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
12 months . 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
18.9  The Co -funded Exploration Drilling Program  
1. Title of the subsidy  
The Co -funded Exploration Drilling Program (of the Exploration Incentive Scheme) . 
2. Period covered by the notification  
Program began in 20 09 and currently financed to 30 June 2019 . 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Aim is to stimulate increased private sector resource exploration, leading to new mineral and 
energy discoveries within the state of Western Australia, particularly i n underexplored greenfield 
regions . G/SCM/N/315/AUS  
 
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  4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
A Western Australian State Government initiative, approved by State Government and 
administered by the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety . 
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
Monetary . 
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
A grant is available to any company, individual or institution that is successful in a competitive 
application process.  Applications can only be for exploration within the State of Western Australia 
and th e drilling can only be undertaken on a granted mineral tenement, or petroleum title held by 
the applicant, or where the applicant has written approval for access by the tenement holder.  
Applications are called for twice a year. In each application process (round) responses to criteria 
are assessed and marked.  Applications are then ranked according to total marks gained and grants 
offered until exhaustion of available funding (generally AUD5 million per round).  Payment of grants 
is only provided when proof o f work and results are submitted to the Department of Mines, 
Industry Regulation and Safety.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
The subsidy is not based on a per unit  value. It is a competitive process, where grants are eligible 
for 50 per cent of direct drilling costs, up to capped values depending on the application type.  A 
Single deep -hole application is capped at AUD200,000, a multiple -hole program capped at 
AUD150,000, and a prospector grant capped at AUD30,000.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The subsidy started in 2009 and is approved to June 2019.  Continuance beyond June 2019 is 
subject to government approval.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects.  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.10   Fremantle Conta iner Rail Subsidy  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Fremantle Container Rail Subsidy . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification  
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The subsidy lowers the relative cost of moving container freight in and out of Fremantle Port on 
rail in an effort to increase the rail services mode share, and therefore mitigate some of the 
negative effects of heavy vehicle movements in the metropolitan area.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
The subs idy was approved by the Minister responsible for Transport Co -ordination Act 1966  
pursuant to powers under sections 16 and 63 of the Act, and is administered by the Department of 
Transport.  Subsidy funding is applied for through the formal State Budget pro cess.  
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  5. Form of the subsidy  
 
From 1 January 2018, rail freight customers receive AUD50 per eligible twenty -foot equivalent unit 
they move on the rail service with an eligible forty -foot equivalent unit receiving double the rate of 
a TEU.  Eligible Intermodal Containers:  
a) Full Intermodal Containers transported by rail between Forrestfield Intermodal Terminal 
and North Quay Rail Terminal (NQRT).  
b) Full Intermodal Containers transported by rail between Kwinana Intermodal Terminal and 
NQRT.  
c) Intermodal Cont ainers that are filled with hay and are received by rail at NQRT for foreign 
export by ship.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
  
The NQRT operator reduces customers ' overall freight rail charges by the subsidy amount.  The 
State Government then reimburses the rail operator for the subsidy payment retrospectively, that 
is, after the rail operator provides proof of moving an eligible TEU for a rail customer.  
 
DoT requires the rail operator to submit invoices before making the reimbursement payments . The 
invoices identify what the rail operator is claiming from DoT and must show:  
 the number of eligible containers moved for the rail customer;  
 the subsidy rate per eligible type of container (TEU/FEU); and  
 the total subsidy amount that is passed on to t he rail customer.  
 
The rail operator submits its invoices weekly for payment by DoT; DoT makes payment within four 
weeks of receiving the invoice.   
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
Total subsidy paid was AUD3.00 million in 2015/16 and AUD2.51 million in 2016/17 . 
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The program is ongoing.  Funding has been allocated until FY 2021 -22. 
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
  
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
 
18.11   Payroll Tax Exemption for Wages Paid to Apprentices and Trainees  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Payroll Tax Exemption for Wages Paid to Apprentices and Trainees.  
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
An employer is exempt from payroll tax for wages paid to eligible apprentices and trainees 
employed under a training contract registered under the Vocational Education and Training Act 
1996 Part 7 Division 2 with the Department of Training and Wor kforce Development.  
 
The policy objective was to strengthen workforce development through encouraging the 
employment of apprentices and trainees.  
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  4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Pay-roll Tax Assessment Act 2002  – Western Australia Clauses 40(1) and 40 (2) (m) and (o).  
 
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Waiver of payroll tax liability on wages paid to apprentices and trainees are exempt from payroll 
tax. Wages paid to eligible apprentices and trainees are not included as 'taxable wages ' for payroll 
tax purposes in Western Australia.  In order to qualify for the exemption, the following criteria must 
be met:  
 The employee must be and apprentices as defined by Division 1 Part 7 of the Vocational 
Education and Training Act 1996  
 Both the emplo yee and employer must sign a training contract  
 The contract must be registered with the Department of Training and Workforce Development.  
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
Wages paid or payable during an assessment year are exempt from payroll tax if the wages are 
paid or payable by an employer to or in relation to a person who is an apprentice under a training 
contract registered under the Vocational Education and Training Act 1996  Part 7 Division2.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
2015-16 Payroll Tax – Apprentices and Trainees - Estimated Actuals - AUD86.5m  
2016-17 Payroll Tax – Apprentices and Trainees - Estimated – AUD79.8m  
Note- the tax and royalty expenditures identified are only approximations.   
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
The payroll tax exemption w as provided during 2015/16 and 2016/17 by the Western Australian 
Government.  The exemption is part of the Pay -Tax Assessment Act 2002.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects is available.  
18.12   Payroll Tax Indigenous Wage Rebate  
1. Title of Subsidy  
 
Pay-roll Tax Indigenous Wages Rebate . 
 
2. Period covered by the notification   
 
Financial years 2015/2016 and 2016/2017.  
 
3. Policy Objective and/or Purpose of the subsidy  
 
The polic y objective of this scheme  is to encourage small to medium businesses to employ new 
indigenous employees by providing a full rebate of payroll tax paid in respect of wages paid to new 
indigenous employees over the first two years of employment.  
 
For the pu rposes of this scheme a small to medium business is one which pays no more than 
AUD15 million in total Australia -wide taxable wages.  
 
4. Background and Authority for the subsidy  
 
Pay-roll Tax (Indigenous Wages) Rebate Act 2012 .  
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  Section 7 sets out the requirements to be considered an 'eligible employer '. Section 8 sets out the 
requirements to be considered an 'eligible employee '. 
https://www.slp.wa.gov.au/legislation/statutes.nsf/law_a146901.html  
5. Form of the subsidy  
 
Eligible employers may benefit from a full rebate of payroll tax paid in respect of wages paid to 
eligible new indigenous employees.  To be able to receive the rebate, employers are required to 
submit an Indigenous Wages Rebate application form which provides details of the wages paid to 
eligible new indigenous.  
 
Following the end of year reconciliation of the employers payroll tax account, the rebate will be 
paid as a cheque if the account is in credit or will be used as an offset where the account has a 
debit balance.  
http://www.finance.wa.go v.au/cms/uploadedFiles/_State_Revenue/Pay -
roll_Tax/INDIGENOUS_WAGES_DECLARATION_FORM.pdf ? 
 
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
 
The Payroll Tax (Indigenous Wages) Rebate Act 2012  provides for the rebate to be paid to 
employers, or grouped employers, wi th annual Australia -wide taxable wages of up to 
AUD15  million, for Western Australian wages paid in the first two years of employment to new 
indigenous employees for whom they also receive a Commonwealth Indigenous Wages Subsidy.  
 
An employer is an eligibl e employer for an assessment year if they are a registered during whole 
or part of the year or, if they were unregistered, they make application for registration as an 
employer  by no later than 7 July following the close of the financial year in which the indigenous 
wages were paid.  The employer must also submit all returns and information required to perform 
the annual reconciliation by no later than 31 December following the end of the year.  
The employer can only claim the rebate in relation to wages paid  to eligible employees.  
 
An employee is an eligible employee for an assessment year if the employer receives or received 
an indigenous wages subsidy in respect of the new employee.  The rebate of payroll tax is only 
applicable to payroll tax paid on wages p aid to an eligible employee during the first 24 months 
commencing on the day on which the employee first commenced employment with the employer.  
 
The indigenous employee must not have been an employee of the employer, or of any other 
employer in a group of  which the employer is a member, at any time prior to the commencement 
of the employment referred to above.  
 
7. Level of subsidy per unit  
 
A rebate of payroll tax paid in relation to eligible indigenous employees which is  otherwise taxed at 
a rate of 5.5 per cent.  
 
8. Duration of the subsidy  
 
The payroll tax indigenous wages rebate is a scheme that has been in operation with effect from 
01 July 2012.  
 
The rebate can only be claimed in respect to payroll tax paid on the wages paid for the first two 
years of employment of each new indigenous employee.  
 
The payroll tax indigenous wages rebate is legislated and is an ongoing scheme available to 
eligible employers.  
 
9. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects  
 
No statistical data permitting an assessment of trade effects is available.  
__________