Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP)

The Research Training Program (RTP) is a flagship initiative by the Australian Government that provides flexible and competitive funding to support postgraduate research (Master’s by Research and PhD) at eligible Australian universities. It empowers both domestic and international candidates to pursue advanced research without financial barriers.

Key Details

• RTP funding is distributed to universities (Higher Education Providers) via block grants to support HDR (Higher Degree by Research) students.

• Scholarships are awarded by universities based on their own criteria — students must apply directly to their chosen institution.

• Available support varies:

  • Tuition Fee Offset: Covers full tuition costs

  • Stipend: Helps with living expenses

  • Allowances: Includes support for research-related costs like relocation, thesis printing, and health coverage

Funding Duration

• PhD (full-time): 3–4 years, with part-time options extending to 6–8 years

• Masters by Research (full-time): Up to 2 years, with part-time options up to 4 years

• 2025 stipend range: A$33,511 – A$52,352 per year, depending on university funding allocation

Why It Matters
The RTP is more than just financial aid, it builds Australia's research capacity by nurturing talented researchers across disciplines, fostering academic-industry collaboration, and developing future leaders in research and innovation. It’s the backbone of postgraduate research success in Australia, providing stability and focus for high-impact projects.