Alastair Swayn Foundation launches 2025 grants program

The Alastair Swayn Foundation has announced it is now accepting applications for its 2025 grants program, with successful applicants to be awarded funding for design-related research.

The 2025 grants program opens on 3 June, with three funding streams available: International Research Grant, Australian Design Grants and Design Audio Grants. Individuals, groups and organisations can apply for any of the streams until 3 July.

The International Research Grant, which awards $20,000, supports successful candidates to undertake international research that strengthens the dialogue between Australian and global design practice. The Australian Design Grants will allocate $10,000 to recipients to conduct architecture and design research that tackles key challenges or opportunities across Australia's designed and built environments. Design Audio Grants will award $8,000 to content creators for the production of design and architecture focused podcasts, radio series or open lecture recordings.

Simon Robinson, a previous International Research Grant recipient and the director of the not-for-profit multidisciplinary design and research practice Office, explored public housing renewal through a global lens.

"Through this grant, I was able to visit and catalogue 19 international examples of successfully refurbished multi-residential buildings. The grant has allowed us to broaden the discourse around public housing renewal, ensuring that global precedents inform local decision-making. I hope this research contributes to more sustainable and community-focused approaches to housing policy in Australia," said Robinson.

"I am incredibly thankful to the Alastair Swayn Foundation for making this work possible and for fostering critical conversations across design, policy, and social impact."

For full details or to apply, visit the Alastair Swayn Foundation website.