Open Call: Return to Work Innovation Trials Grant (Australia)

WorkSafe Victoria is offering the Return to Work Innovation Trials, a funding opportunity aimed at addressing key recovery and return to work challenges in Victoria, Australia. Open for applications until 2:00 pm AEST, 27 November 2026, this initiative seeks to support organizations in co-designing, testing, evaluating, and scaling innovative approaches with the potential to create lasting, system-level changes. The Return to Work Innovation Trials aim to foster significant improvements in recovery and return to work outcomes for Victorian workers and employers. By encouraging collaboration across industry, research, community, and worker networks, the Trials seek to address complex challenges through innovative solutions. Applicants must lead a consortium to develop initiatives that can be evaluated and potentially adopted more widely across Victoria. Each selected trial can receive funding of up to $1.25 million, allowing for extensive co-design, testing, and evaluation of innovative strategies over a period of up to two years. The Trials support initiatives that can demonstrate potential for scalable impact and long-term change across industries. Eligible applicants include organizations capable of leading a consortium. Key eligibility criteria are: The Trials focus on industries like construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and social assistance, with an emphasis on workers from multicultural communities within these sectors. The goal is to develop and test new methods and processes that can enhance recovery and return to work outcomes. The Return to Work Innovation Trials are instrumental in pioneering system-level improvements that benefit both workers and employers in Victoria. By facilitating collaboration and innovation, the Trials help uncover effective strategies that can be adopted across various sectors, ultimately enhancing the employment landscape in Victoria. What are the Return to Work Innovation Trials? The Trials offer funding to lead organizations working within a consortium to design, test, evaluate, and scale innovative approaches for improving recovery and return to work outcomes in Victoria. Who can apply? Organizations able to lead a consortium, targeting eligible industries, and operating in Victoria with a registered ABN and GST compliance. What is the role of a lead organization? The lead organization is responsible for managing the Trial, demonstrating governance and financial management, and ensuring effective collaboration among consortium partners. What is a consortium? A consortium consists of organizations and individuals collaborating to design, deliver, and evaluate a Trial, bringing together diverse expertise and perspectives. What are the key investment principles? These principles include innovation, evidence-based approaches, scalability, capability building, and inclusivity to ensure the Trials achieve their intended outcomes. Eligible organizations should thoroughly review the guidelines and consider forming a consortium to apply. Ensure all required elements are included in your proposal and submit by the specified deadline for consideration.