Are you ready to become a bridge between nations and a leader in your field? The Maitri Fellowship Program 2026 in Australia is your gateway to a world of professional development, cross-cultural collaboration, and transformative leadership. As a fully funded fellowship program, it empowers early-career and established professionals to drive innovation, build international networks, and contribute to the dynamic Australia-India partnership. If you aspire to make a global impact, this is the leadership fellowship you’ve been waiting for.
Fellowship Overview
The Maitri Fellowship Program is a prestigious initiative by the Centre for Australia-India Relations, administered by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Designed to deepen academic, research, and policy ties between Australia and India, the program supports collaborative projects in science, technology, public policy, and more. Fellows undertake research or professional placements at leading institutions in Australia or India, gaining hands-on experience and global exposure for up to 12 months (or two years for joint projects) .
Purpose:
- Strengthen Australia-India relations through research, innovation, and leadership.
- Foster future leaders and institutional partnerships.
- Promote knowledge exchange for the benefit of the Indo-Pacific region.
Fellowship Details
- Country: Australia (with opportunities for exchange in India)
- Host Organization: Centre for Australia-India Relations, administered by DFAT
- Duration: Up to 12 months (inward/outward fellowships); up to 2 years (joint/two-way fellowships)
- Funding/Type: Fully funded; covers travel, research costs, living expenses, and professional development
Eligibility Criteria
To ensure the Maitri Fellowship Program attracts the best and brightest, the eligibility criteria are both rigorous and inclusive:
- Education:
- Minimum of a bachelor’s degree; master’s or PhD preferred for research roles.
- Relevant field of study (STEM, public policy, international relations, etc.)
- Nationality:
- Indian citizens (for inbound fellowships to Australia) or Australian citizens (for outbound fellowships to India).
- Applicants must not be permanent residents of the host country.
- Professional Background:
- Early-career scholars, PhD candidates, postgraduate researchers, or professionals with a strong track record.
- Demonstrated leadership, research, or policy experience.
- Other Requirements:
- English proficiency (as required by host institution).
- Ability to obtain the necessary visa (Temporary Activity Visa subclass 408 for Australia) .
Benefits & Funding
The Maitri Fellowship Program is a fully funded global opportunity designed to maximize your professional and personal growth:
- Financial Support:
- Grants range from AUD $40,000 to $300,000 per project, covering travel, research, and living expenses.
- Mentorship:
- Access to leading academics, industry experts, and policy leaders in Australia and India.
- Training & Professional Development:
- Workshops, seminars, and leadership training tailored to your field.
- Networking:
- Join a vibrant community of fellows, alumni, and institutional partners.
- Global Exposure:
- Experience world-class research environments and cross-cultural collaboration.
- Cultural Immersion:
- Participate in events and activities that deepen your understanding of Australia-India relations .
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Review the Grant Guidelines:
- Carefully read the official Maitri Fellowship Program guidelines.
- Prepare Your Documents:
- Project proposal, CV, academic transcripts, proof of citizenship, letters of recommendation, and institutional support letter.
- Online Application:
- Submit your application via the SmartyGrants portal.
- Shortlisting & Assessment:
- Applications are reviewed for eligibility and merit. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
- Notification:
- Successful applicants are notified and provided with next steps.
- Visa & Pre-Departure:
- Secure the required visa and complete any pre-departure formalities.
- Commence Fellowship:
- Begin your fellowship at the host institution in Australia or India .
Application Deadline
Applications open: September 16, 2025
Application deadline: January 14, 2026
Results announced: April 2026
Fellowships commence: May–June 2026
Tips for Applicants
- Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare a strong application and gather all required documents.
- Align with Program Goals: Clearly demonstrate how your project supports Australia-India relations and the fellowship’s objectives.
- Showcase Leadership: Highlight your achievements, leadership roles, and impact in your field.
- Be Clear and Concise: Write a compelling, well-structured proposal that is easy for reviewers to follow.
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors or peers review your application for clarity and completeness.
- Stay Motivated: Remember, every successful fellow started with a single application believe in your potential!
Conclusion
The Maitri Fellowship Program 2026 is more than just a fellowship it’s a launchpad for future leaders, innovators, and changemakers. By bridging Australia and India, this fully funded program offers unparalleled opportunities for research, professional development, and global impact. If you’re passionate about making a difference and eager to expand your horizons, this is your moment.
Ready to transform your career and build international connections? Apply today!
FAQs
Who can apply for the Maitri Fellowship Program?
Indian or Australian citizens with a relevant academic or professional background and a strong project proposal .
Is the Maitri Fellowship Program fully funded?
Yes, it covers travel, research, living expenses, and professional development activities .
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Fellowships last up to 12 months, or up to 2 years for joint projects .
What fields are supported?
STEM, public policy, geostrategic research, and other areas aligned with Australia-India priorities .
Can early-career professionals apply?
Absolutely! Early-career scholars, PhD candidates, and professionals are encouraged to apply .
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on January 14, 2026. Results are announced in April 2026 .
Apply now and take the first step toward becoming a global changemaker!
