JSF-ISP – Production and Modernisation Grants

Key Requirements

The Australian government’s purchase of F-35 fighter jets, Project AIR 6000, came with a program to boost the domestic industry. The Joint Strike Fighter Industry Support Program is funded by the Department of Defence and provides grants to Australian companies. This program aims to strengthen these businesses by helping them develop new skills or improve existing ones. By becoming more competitive, these companies will be in a better position to win contracts for production, sustainment, and modernisation of the Joint Strike Fighter Program.

The Production and Modernisation program aims to create a thriving and skilled Australian defence industry that can actively seek and capitalise on business opportunities both domestically and internationally. By supporting workforce development, innovation, and productivity, the program seeks to enhance the overall competitiveness of the Australian defence industry.

You must demonstrate that the project will:

• enhance Australia’s engagement and competitiveness in the global economy
• strengthen Australian defence industry skills, capabilities and competitiveness
• explore additional Australian business opportunities within global defence industry supply chains.

You should illustrate this by identifying:

• an existing demand from entities within the JSF supply chain for the specific JSF industry capability
• proof that the project will result in additional market opportunities, both within the JSF sector and beyond
• the project’s competitive advantages compared to current or competing products, processes, or services

To do this you should identify:

• your history of successfully managing similar projects and your access to personnel and/or partners possessing the requisite skills and experience
• your preparedness to initiate the project, including having the necessary approvals in place and access to resources such as infrastructure, capital equipment, or technology. If applicable, please provide evidence of environmental approvals and land ownership.
• the sound project planning involves managing and monitoring the project, encompassing aspects such as scope, implementation methodology, timeframes, budget, and risk management planning. This includes mitigating health risks associated with the current COVID-19 pandemic.
• a sound commercialisation plan outlining a clear path to achieve the project’s goals, including the following aspects:
  • a clear set of objectives
  • a clearly defined plan outlining the specific steps, timelines, and financial investment required to achieve commercial success that will ultimately benefit Australia’s economy.
  • an understanding of the primary structural or market challenges that need to be addressed, including any trade barriers and access to manufacturing partners, is crucial.
  • a sound Intellectual Property strategy (where applicable).

Show how this applies by outlining:

• the likelihood your project would move forward without the grant
• the beneficial effect the grant will have on the scale, scope, or schedule of your project
• the overall additional investment that the grant will attract and describe how this will directly enhance your ability to contribute to the JSF Program.