Navigating the Updated DISR R&D Tax Incentive Application Form (Effective Mid-August 2025)

DISR R&D Tax Incentive changes. A positive step forward?

Important updates are rolling out, with the new Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) R&D Tax Incentive application form expected to go live mid-August 2025.

As a Perth-based R&D Tax Incentive consultant, we've been closely monitoring these developments. The revised form aims to collect more detailed information upfront, with the goal of reducing the need for follow-up during the registration process. This is a welcome shift that could streamline claims for genuine innovation and reduce unnecessary friction.

Crucially, any draft forms currently saved in the R&D Portal will no longer be accessible once the new form is released. If you have a draft in progress, be aware of this deadline.

What to expect from the new detailed information requirements.
Expect to need very clear, specific descriptions of your experimental activities, the technical questions you aimed to answer, and how your approach was systematic.
You'll likely need to clearly articulate the specific knowledge gaps you were trying to overcome. Why couldn't the outcome be known in advance by a competent professional in your field?
Strengthen your contemporaneous documentation. Ensure your records clearly show the nexus between your experimental work, the identified uncertainty, and the knowledge sought.

Preparing for the change.

If you have any draft applications saved in the DISR portal, ensure you complete and submit them before mid-August 2025, or be prepared to restart with the new form.
Use this as an opportunity to review your current R&D project documentation practices.
If you're unsure how these changes impact your specific R&D projects, reaching out early can save significant time and risk.

Understanding these new requirements is key to a smooth and successful claim. We're here in Perth to help Australian businesses navigate these updates and ensure their R&D efforts are effectively recognised.

If you'd like help understanding the updated forms, setting up a project and activities, reviewing eligibility, or just talking it through, feel free to reach out. This is what we specialise in and we’re here to help.