The Career Continuity Grant supports early career researchers to maintain their research excellence, before, during and following a period of parental leave.

Our Faculty leadership recognises that periods of parental leave and research inactivity can have a significant impact on research momentum, particularly for early research careers. This year, as part of the Advancing Health 2030 - Inclusive Communities strategy, we are launching a pilot program to assist eligible research staff to maintain their research activity and trajectory, when taking or returning from parental leave. Flexible funding will enable our future research leaders the opportunity to plan their time away to maintain research momentum, while taking the time needed with their family.

In 2025, the scheme is available to Level A, B and C staff with a research allocation of at least 40%, who take a period of parental leave of three months or greater, between June 2025 - June 2026.

Funding is available for up to $40,000 per applicant.

Objectives

The Career Continuity Grant aims to:

• Reduce the impact of parental leave on research continuity and career progression
• Support research capability and momentum
• Create a supportive culture where academic careers can flourish
• Ensure a diversity of researchers succeed within MDHS

View the 2025 Guidelines