The New Colombo Plan (NCP) Mobility Program provides funding to Australian universities to support Australian undergraduate students to develop Indo-Pacific capability through participation in 4 to 9 week credit bearing experiences, including study, language training, internships, mentorships, practicums and/or research.
The intended outcomes of the 2026 NCP Mobility Program are:
- participants develop their Indo-Pacific knowledge and capability, including language skills, in line with Australia’s strategic interests
- Australian universities leverage institutional partnerships in the Indo-Pacific and there is an expansion of engagement with counterpart institutions in priority host locations and languages
- alumni maintain and develop their Indo-Pacific capability, including language skills, and engagement with the region.
Australian universities can apply, including through consortia arrangements, for funding under the NCP Mobility Program.
New Colombo Plan Mobility Program 2026 Round
Applications for the 2026 round of the NCP Mobility Program are now open.
It is anticipated that up to $8.17 million will be available to provide funding grants through the 2026 NCP Mobility Program, including 10 per cent administration funding for universities.
To access the 2026 NCP Mobility Program Guidelines and related documents – which contain information about eligibility requirements, selection processes and advice on how to apply – please visit the following page on the GrantConnect website:
New Colombo Plan Mobility Program 2026 Round
GrantConnect is the authoritative source for Australian Government grants information. If you are new to using GrantConnect, you will be required to register to receive a login. By registering, you will be notified automatically of any changes.
Information on previous funding rounds.
Contacts
DFAT is unable to accept NCP Mobility Program applications from Australian undergraduate students directly.
University staff and eligible undergraduate students interested in the NCP Mobility Program should contact their university's study abroad/international liaison office for more information, or DFAT’s NCP Secretariat at ncp.secretariat@dfat.gov.au.