15 Australian programs that can reduce the cost of AI implementation. From tax incentives to matched grants to free advisory programs. We'll help you find the right one.
These programs are the best fit for businesses with 5-25 staff looking to invest in AI automation and consulting.
AusIndustry · Federal Government
Refundable tax offset of up to 43.5% for companies under $20M turnover building novel AI solutions. Covers staff salaries on R&D, contractor fees, materials, and overhead costs.
CSIRO · Federal Government
Up to $50,000 matched dollar-for-dollar. You put in $50K, CSIRO matches $50K. Funds a collaborative R&D project with CSIRO researchers in machine learning and AI.
CSIRO + USC · Queensland-specific
Up to $50,000 matched funding for QLD SMEs collaborating with regional universities including USC. Perfect for Sunshine Coast businesses wanting to develop AI solutions with local research expertise.
Blue Seas AI can help you apply for RUIC funding AND build the AI system. We bridge the gap between USC's research capability and your business needs.
Queensland Government
$5,000 grant (excl GST) paid upfront. Covers coaching, training, strategic marketing, website builds, and digital improvement. Can cover initial AI advisory sessions.
ATO · Federal Government
Immediate tax deduction for assets under $20,000 per asset. Covers computers, hardware, and potentially software licences used for AI implementation. Multiple assets allowed.
Depending on your business size, industry, and project scope, these programs may also apply.
$50K - $5M matched
AusIndustry. Early-stage commercialisation and growth funding. Rolling applications. Under $20M turnover. ~90% of pool projected spent by June 2026.
$100K - $3M · $20M AI pool
Cooperative Research Centres Projects. Dedicated $20M pool for AI systems. Requires 2+ industry orgs + 1 research org. Applications close 12 May 2026.
Free 8-week program
QLD Government + CSIRO. Launched March 2026. Free access to CSIRO research expertise for innovation and AI. Covers digital, robotics, and AI streams.
Up to $80K/year
Austrade. Covers marketing, travel, and market research for exporting services. If you're selling AI consulting to NZ, Asia, or beyond. Lifetime cap $770K.
$50K - $75K matched
For high-growth QLD businesses. Under 20 employees, $500K-$10M turnover. Must demonstrate 20% annual growth. Equipment-focused but may cover specialised AI software.
Subsidised advisory sessions
Up to 4 hours of subsidised digital advice. Currently paused until July 2026. For small businesses with fewer than 20 FTE employees.
$10K - $25K
Covers up to 50% of innovation event budgets. Could fund AI workshops, masterclasses, or innovation events in Queensland. Watch for next round.
Free program
Accelerator support for startups and businesses leveraging AI across all sectors. Open for 2026 registrations.
Free AIML engineering time
South Australian businesses only. Free access to Australian Institute for Machine Learning engineering time. Two streams: AI Road Map and ML Innovate. Active until 2028.
CLOSED since July 2022
Previously offered $1,200 rebates. No longer available. Some AI consultancies still list this - it's been closed for nearly 4 years.