FRDC is launching a unique format for FRDC researchers to present current FRDC-funded research (or recently completed) at the 2026 Seafood Directions conference. Apply now to receive up to $4,000 to cover the costs of attending and presenting your work at a special research presentation, pop-up event.
This special event – FRDC’s FishTank - is a dedicated space for you to bring your FRDC research to life in innovative, interactive and creative ways. Think displaying project equipment, props, live research demonstrations, interactive experiments, or any novel way to showcase science to capture and engage the Seafood Directions audience.
The format is simple. You will be under the spotlight for 10 minutes:
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5 minutes will be given to explain your research project. Using the props, equipment and displays you’ve created to showcase and explain how you are undertaking the research, and how it will benefit stakeholders and demonstrate the impact it will deliver.
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There will be a 5-minute interactive Q&A session where conference attendees can ask questions about your project, query your work to better understand your research and give you an opportunity to engage with Seafood Directions attendees.
To help you think about different ways to showcase your research, the FRDC FishTank initiative also includes FREE professional science communication training, to help build your confidence and capability to present your fantastic research at FRDC's FishTank!
How to apply?
Develop and submit a 3-5-minute video pitch covering:
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Your name, organisation, FRDC project number/s and a quick explanation of the research you’re undertaking and what it aims to deliver.
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Outline who needs to know about your R&D project – who are the ultimate beneficiaries, relevant decision makers or target audiences.
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How will you bring your research to life in FRDC FishTank – what research equipment, fishing or aquaculture gear, scientific tools or other props will you use to explain the work you’re undertaking in a visually compelling way.
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R&D highlights – what are the key findings or fascinating outcomes of your ongoing FRDC-funded research project.
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Cost - a small summary of how much you think this opportunity will cost (include everything except hotel and food costs)
It is hoped your presentation at Seafood Directions could replace a communication milestone in your FRDC project. Note: This will be at the discretion of the FRDC Research Portfolio Manager.
Once you are happy with your pitch – upload it to YouTube, make it unlisted, and submit the link through this form. This form will also ask for some additional information.
Not sure how to upload your video onto YouTube? Watch this video or contact comms@frdc.com.au if you need assistance.
The competition will be fierce – only the top four pitches will make it to Seafood Directions – so bring your A-game!
Frequently Asked Questions
Before applying, please read the following FAQ, which provides important details about the event, costs, and attendance.
When is Seafood Directions happening?
Seafood Directions is being held in Sydney from the 28-30 July 2026.
Can I present with others?
Only the researcher from the FRDC project planning to attend FishTank can present in their 3–5 minute video pitch. We want to see what YOU bring to the table!
But note that up to two researchers from an individual FRDC project can submit pitches.
What are the judging criteria?
The judging criteria are:
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Creativity
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Innovative use and application of communication outputs
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Brevity
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Engagement (does it grab the audience’s attention?)
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Adhering to the brief
All of these elements will be judged on a scale of 1-10. The four highest scores will attend Seafood Directions and present at FRDC FishTank.
What costs will FRDC cover?
FRDC will cover your registration, flights and accommodation for you to attend Seafood Directions, if you make the top four. Breakdown of costs is:
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FRDC will book your accommodation on behalf of the successful researcher. These will be at FRDC's cost.
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Flights to and from your nearest airport, at a reasonable economy ticket price
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$750 AUD (including GST) for equipment, displays, communication outputs that will be shown or used during your presentation, on your stand, or both. Tax invoices must be provided for reimbursement. FRDC will retain these display materials for future use.
Finalists will enter individual development award deeds with FRDC prior to receiving money and training.
Finalists will receive training from a science communication training provider, who specialises in demonstrations and props.
I want to use equipment or a communication output for my stand and/or presentation, but I can’t carry it over! Can I get it delivered?
Yes, but note that this will be part of your up to $750 AUD for communication outputs. Tax invoices must be provided for reimbursement.
Do I get to keep my props and outputs from FishTank?
Please note that FRDC will retain Intellectual Property rights on all physical and digital communication outputs created as part of FRDC FishTank, as per our usual practice outlined in project agreements.
However, please note in your video pitch if there are elements FRDC should know of that you either want to keep, or cannot be kept by FRDC (such as current materials brought that will continue to be used for the project, or equipment that will be hired).
Who will be providing the science presentation training?
Details to come!
Can my presentation focus on multiple FRDC research projects?
FRDC recommends that you focus on one FRDC project for your video pitch and presentation, but the option to talk about multiple FRDC projects is there. But please remember, the projects must be ongoing FRDC-funded research and/or research completed within the last 3 months (dated as of your pitch), and not already completed projects.
Apply now!
Remember, once you are happy with your pitch – upload it to YouTube, make it private, and submit the link through this form. This form will also ask for some additional information.
If you aren't sure how to upload your video onto YouTube, Watch this video or contact comms@frdc.com.au if you need assistance
The deadline to apply is 17 February 2026 11:59PM AEST. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Find out more about Seafood Directions
Thanks for your interest in applying for FRDC FishTank – it’s going to be a fantastic event showcasing the excellent research and skill sets our research community has!
