Operational Energy Transitions Defence Research Centre Contributing Partner RFI

Overview The Department of Defence is undertaking a Request for Information (RFI) to engage with the market regarding the Operational Energy Transitions Defence Research Centre (OET DRC), for the purpose of identifying potential Contributing Partners. This RFI (ATM ID 13457) is being run in parallel with a separate Lead Partner Request for Tender (RFT) process (ATM ID 13016), which is engaging a supplier as Lead Partner to provide research leadership and expertise at the program and project level for the OET DRC. Further information regarding the Lead Partner RFT can be found on AusTender under ATM ID 13016. About The OET DRC is being developed in response to a fundamental shift in the role of energy within Defence capability and operations. Energy is no longer a background enabler, but a central determinant of operational effectiveness, underpinning operational tempo, persistence, survivability, and freedom of action in increasingly contested and degraded environments. The OET DRC will initially address the following five areas (OET DRC Themes): Dispersed Energy Access at the Tactical Edge Sustainment Under Contested Conditions Resilient and Scalable Forward Energy Systems Enabling Next-Generation High-Power and High-Consumption Capabilities Extended Endurance and Reduced Logistic Dependence Purpose This RFI is being conducted to engage with the market for the purposes of understanding market capability and potential suppliers that align with, and have interest in, research related to the OET DRC Themes, and informing the development and conduct of other procurement processes, including future procurement processes. Objectives Defence's overall objective is to support innovative, low Technology Readiness Level research that advances new knowledge, develops emerging concepts or prototypes, and has the potential to contribute to future capability outcomes associated with the OET DRC Themes. Information Requested This RFI invites entities interested in the OET DRC Themes to provide a response that outlines their research expertise, capability and facilities. Respondents are also invited to put forward unique or novel research and technology approaches to enable practical solutions under the OET DRC Themes. Tender Briefing A virtual Industry Briefing will be held on 1 October 2026. Date: 1 October 2026 Format: Virtual briefing Registration: Register for the Industry Briefing Registration closing date and time: 5pm AEST, Monday 28 September 2026 There is no restriction on virtual attendance numbers, however all attendees must be registered. Additional details will be provided once registrations are accepted. Defence invites respondents to submit questions in advance of the Industry Briefing to research.contracts@defence.gov.au. Questions submitted after the Industry Briefing will be responded to by Addendum to the RFI. Enquiries Contact: Director, Science Commercial Email: research.contracts@defence.gov.au