ARC publishes updated guidelines on the use of generative artificial intelligence in grant evaluation

The ARC has released an updated Policy on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in ARC Grants Programs, which provides guidance on the use of AI by researchers, administrative organizations, and reviewers involved in the National Competitive Grants Program.

The policy will come into effect on April 28, 2026 and will apply to both applications and assessments for Discovery Indigenous 2027 and other program rounds beginning thereafter.

Applicants can continue to use AI as a supporting tool in preparing applications, but remain responsible for authorship and intellectual content. Examiners are now only allowed to use AI to assist with grammar, spelling, formatting and readability of draft assessments.

Note that this approach is consistent with the National Health and Medical Research Council’s updated AI guidance, which was published alongside the ARCs in a joint ARC and NHMRC statement.

All applicants and reviewers should familiarize themselves with the updated policy, which replaces the…