Artificial Intelligence Investment Fund

Step 1: Prepare your application

Download and complete the application form.

Before submitting the application form, ensure you have completed the WA Government AI Assurance Framework (self-assessment). The self-assessment supports the identification and management of AI-related risks and helps demonstrate alignment with the WA Government AI Policy. Information provided will inform the assessment of your funding application.

You may not be able to complete all questions in the self-assessment at this stage. Please respond to the best of your ability. 

In the application form, you will be required to provide information about:

• the business problem being addressed
• how AI will be used
• expected benefits
• delivery approach 
• collaboration with industry and universities
• breakdown of costs and funding sources.

How are applications prioritised for funding?

Consider the prioritisation principles provided below (“How are applications prioritised for funding?”) to understand how your application will be assessed.

You are encouraged to reach out to the Office of Digital Government via AI-DGov@dpc.wa.gov.au for advice on your project’s eligibility and for support in preparing your application.

Step 2: Obtain endorsement

The application form must be endorsed by your agency’s AI Accountable Officer and Chief Executive Officer prior to submission.

You are also encouraged to notify your relevant Minister of the proposal.

Step 3: Submit your application

Submit the completed application form to the Office of Digital Government by emailing AI-DGov@dpc.wa.gov.au before COB Monday, 19 October 2026.

Step 4: Assessment and approval process

Eligible applications will first be assessed by the Department of the Premier and Cabinet’s Office of Digital Government against the Fund’s prioritisation principles. Applications recommended for funding will be considered by the Digital Capability Fund Assurance Committee, which provides oversight and assurance for the Fund. Recommendations will then be submitted to Government for approval.

Step 5: Project delivery and ongoing reporting

You will be notified of funding outcomes following a final funding decision in January 2027. 

If successful, you will be expected to commence project delivery within four weeks of receiving notification of the funding outcome and required to provide regular reporting on project delivery, including progress against proposed timeframes, outcomes and benefits.

WA Government entities within the scope of the WA Government AI Policy are eligible to apply for funding.

For your application to be assessed, you should ensure that the application:

• Proposes a clear and appropriate AI use case, which: 
  • demonstrates proof-of-value by identifying clearly defined benefits, outcomes and success measures
  • has the potential to deliver measurable outcomes such as productivity improvements, efficiency gains or improved service delivery.
  • complies with the WA Government AI Policy and the agency has completed the AI Self-assessment for the initiative.
• Demonstrates alignment with WA Government priorities and/or has the potential for cross-agency reuse or scalability.
• Includes agency co-contribution to the proposed AI use case, including funding and/or the allocation of existing staff.
• Is endorsed by your agency’s AI Accountable Officer and Chief Executive Officer.

The Fund targets AI initiatives with potential to demonstrate business proof-of-value. The Fund may not prioritise applications that only demonstrate a technology proof-of-concept. 

Agencies should be aware that larger submissions that involve legacy system upgrades or ongoing operational costs should be submitted through the WA State Budget process.

Eligible applications will be assessed holistically against the following funding principles:

• Public value and benefits – demonstrate clear and tangible benefits for government, citizens and/or public service outcomes.
• Alignment with WA Government priorities or scalability across government – support the delivery of government priorities and/or demonstrate potential for reuse or broader adoption within and across government agencies.
• Time to value – demonstrate a clear pathway to delivering measurable value within a short delivery timeframe (3 to 9 months).
• Feasibility and agency readiness – demonstrate readiness, a realistic approach to successful delivery, and a proven agency track record of successfully delivering data or digital projects of a similar scale or complexity.
• Cost efficiency and collaboration – maximise value for money by contributing existing funding and leveraging industry and academic expertise.
• Risk level – demonstrate that risks are understood, managed and supported by appropriate governance arrangements and safeguards.