NT 2026 Ichthys Coastal Management Grants

Total funding available is $1.5 million.
Project and activity-based work can receive up to $200,000 per year. Larger exceptional projects may be considered, especially where they have a regional scope
Capital items, equipment and infrastructure can receive up to $250,000. Exceptional capital projects of up to $500,000 may be considered.
Matched funding is not required. Significant in-kind contributions are required only where university-based researchers are funded within a project.
Project activities may run for one to five years. Capital purchases are one off.
Applications close July 10 2026

The 2026 Ichthys Coastal Management Grants provide funding to support Aboriginal organisations in the Northern Territory to improve conservation outcomes for marine Matters of National Environmental Significance. The program supports both project-based work and the purchase of capital items, equipment and infrastructure. It is focused on improving the conservation of significant marine species and habitats, while enhancing and maintaining the capacity of Aboriginal ranger groups to deliver these management actions.

Eligible projects must respond to an identified need, deliver clear management, conservation and cultural outcomes, and go beyond business-as-usual activities already funded through other sources. The program also supports regional collaboration, stronger governance, gender equity in caring for Country projects, and long-term benefits for Country and community. Funding can support work linked to species, habitats and threat management priorities across Aboriginal coastal and sea country in the Northern Territory.

Key Requirements

Improve conservation outcomes for marine species and habitats Projects must implement management actions that improve the conservation of marine Matters of National Environmental Significance and their habitat. Applications must clearly link outcomes and targets to eligible species, habitats or threat management priorities identified by the program.
Build and maintain Aboriginal ranger group capability Applications should enhance and maintain the capacity of Aboriginal ranger groups to deliver coastal and sea country management actions. This can include investment in governance, technology, knowledge transfer, planning, monitoring and workforce capability where it directly supports project outcomes.
Demonstrate need and deliver more than business as usual Applications must respond to an identified need or demand and deliver clear management, conservation and cultural outcomes. Activities already funded through existing core sources will not be considered.
Show strong project planning, governance and value for money Applications are assessed on viability and capability, including clear milestones, a realistic budget, appropriate supporting information, and governance arrangements, especially for collaborative or regional projects.
Deliver lasting community and conservation benefits Projects should provide environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits that persist beyond the funded period. Applications that promote gender equity and strengthen community and regional engagement are also highly regarded

What is eligible for funding?

On-ground activities for environmental and cultural outcomes, such as marine debris removal, reduction of pig predation on turtle eggs, and management of threatened and iconic species and habitat.
Training and skill development in governance, communication, knowledge recording and transfer, technology use, compliance and enforcement to support Aboriginal management of coastal and sea country.
Monitoring and evaluation activities to quantify environmental and cultural benefits for dugongs, turtles, cetaceans, shorebirds and habitats.
Development of sea country plans, regional management plans and local governance improvements.
Purchase of vehicles, boats, trailers, moorings, motors, navigation and safety equipment, survey and monitoring equipment, remote bases, storage, renewable power and water system upgrades that support on-ground activities

What companies are eligible for funding?

Aboriginal organisations registered or incorporated within the Northern Territory.
Ranger groups registered or incorporated within the Northern Territory.
Land Councils registered or incorporated within the Northern Territory.
Aboriginal-controlled incorporated associations registered or incorporated within the Northern Territory.

Other considerations for applicants:

Applicants must have a clearly identified role in management and conservation on Aboriginal land and seas.
Applications must be complete and include the required budget, milestones and supporting documentation.
Applicants must demonstrate they hold or can obtain any required permissions and must hold appropriate insurance.
Joint applications and regional partnerships are encouraged where governance arrangements are clearly explained.

Is this grant competitive or entitlement based?

Competitive. Your application will be assessed among other applications by a judging panel.

How can I increase my chances of winning this grant?

By engaging an accredited government grants consultant, such as Avant Group.

Competitive grants often require significant business case development and project analysis to support the application, this may include detailed presentations supporting the project’s merit, projected sales, cost-benefit analysis and more.

As part of your engagement with Avant Group, your account manager will assess the required documents and will provide the following as needed to support your grant submission.

Grant application writeup including a detailed presentation illustrating how the grant funding will contribute to your project, how the funding will contribute to the project’s budget, a project milestone plan, delivery timeline, impact on employment if applicable and a breakdown of the management and leadership team for the project

Industry analysis presentation
Competitor Analysis Presentation
Marketing and Sales Analysis Presentation
3-5 year Cashflow Forecast
3-5 year Balance Sheet Forecast
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Grant Funding
End-to-end grant application including information collating, analysis and application writing
CAPEX (Capital Expenditure) cost-benefit analysis
Stakeholder relations and Risk Mitigation Plans
Any other relevant forecasting that will support your application

How can I get help with my application? Or know if I’m likely to win funding?

Avant Group offers a no-obligation assessment of your eligibility for funding and will assess your likelihood of a successful grant application.

This grant is open

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