Sapphire Refresh project closure
NHMRC wishes to advise that the Sapphire Refresh project, which was leading the development of an NHMRC internally managed grant system, has been discontinued. This decision was made after careful consideration and reflects NHMRC’s commitment to align with the Australian Government’s direction toward a common technology approach for grants management across agencies. By engaging early in cross-government planning and maintaining sector consultation, NHMRC aims to move towards a future grant management system that supports innovation, collaboration, and efficiency for the research sector.
What does this mean?
- NHMRC will not proceed with building an in-house solution at this time.
- NHMRC will continue to deliver grant management services that support the administration of the NHMRC grant program and relevant Medical Research Future Fund grant opportunities.
- NHMRC will continue dialogue with external reference groups and internal business units to gather requirements that will guide future discussions regarding whole-of-government grant management solutions.
For the research community:
- Current processes remain in place to manage grants in Sapphire - there will be no system changes at this time.
- NHMRC will be engaging with the research sector through external reference groups, with timelines and formats being finalised. Those who expressed interest will be contacted soon with next steps.
- NHMRC will continue to seek a solution that reduces administrative burden and improves alignment with other research funding bodies.
NHMRC appreciates your ongoing support and engagement as we work towards a modern, streamlined grants management solution. Further updates will be shared as information becomes available.
For questions or feedback please contact sapphire.refresh@nhmrc.gov.au.