Applications open for 2026 Lillian de Lissa Research Partnership Grant

Applications are now open for the 2026 Lillian de Lissa Research Partnership Grant, with the South Australian Department for Education inviting research partnerships focused on strengthening outcomes for children and the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector.

The grant program, delivered through the Department for Education’s SmartyGrants portal, supports collaborative research projects that bring together researchers and ECEC practitioners to explore evidence‑informed approaches, innovation and practice improvement. Submissions close 30 June 2026.

Named in honour of early childhood education pioneer Lillian de Lissa, the initiative continues a long‑standing commitment to advancing research and professional knowledge connected to early learning and child development in South Australia. De Lissa played a foundational role in shaping kindergarten and preschool education in Australia and internationally, with her legacy continuing through research, scholarship and educator‑led inquiry.

A timely opportunity for sector‑led research

The 2026 grant round opens at a time when evidence‑informed practice, workforce capability and research translation are increasingly central to national ECEC reform. Across Australia, governments, providers and sector leaders are placing greater emphasis on research that can:

• inform policy
• strengthen pedagogical practice
• support inclusion and wellbeing
• improve learning outcomes for children

The grant is expected to attract strong interest from universities, research organisations and ECEC providers seeking to develop projects with practical application across early learning settings.

Key details and timelines

According to information published on the SmartyGrants portal, applications for the 2026 round opened on 23 March 2026 and will close at midnight on 30 June 2026 (ACST).

The broader Lillian de Lissa Trust has historically supported postgraduate study and research connected to early childhood education, particularly projects designed to deliver meaningful benefits for children and families in South Australia. The Research Partnership Grant continues this tradition by prioritising collaborative, practice‑focused research that directly involves educators and services.

Supporting continuous improvement across ECEC

The announcement reflects growing sector recognition that high‑quality research partnerships play an important role in supporting continuous improvement across ECEC services. As the sector navigates workforce pressures, regulatory change and increasing complexity around child development and inclusion, research‑driven insights are becoming increasingly valuable.

Applicants who require support with the submission process are encouraged to download the Help Guide for Applicants or review the Applicant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) available on the SmartyGrants site.