Eight Australian companies have received $2.9 million in funding to support the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program, as part of the latest round of the Defence Industry Development Grants program. The latest allocation brings total funding under the Defence Industry Development Grants program to more than $51 million, following previous rounds announced in May and July 2025. Minister for defence industry Pat Conroy said the funding would help strengthen Australia’s sovereign defence industrial base. “We’re backing Australian businesses, Australian workers and Australian innovation to deliver the capabilities the Australian Defence Force needs,” he said. Beyond grant funding, the Australian Submarine Agency also supports industry through initiatives such as the Defence Industry Vendor Qualification Program and the Australian Submarine Supplier Qualification Pilot, delivered under contract with HII Australia.