FAQs

The term “Telematics” comes from the French word "télématique," which was coined in 1978 in an influential report that predicted many aspects of the information society that would later emerge. The term gained widespread usage through the 1980s when the Trust was formed but is rarely used today. Telematics combines "telecommunications" and "informatics” and essentially means the delivery of information via a combination of computers and wireless technologies. The most well-known telematic tools include the internet and Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Telematic technologies are always evolving and changing with new and exciting advances being created every day.

About funding and applying

The Trust can provide:
Grants of up to $50,000
The Trust requires that all projects provide some level of partnership funding whether it be cash or in-kind support.
The Trust normally provides grants of up to $50,000 and grant applications larger than this will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.
Only ONE application can be considered per applicant in each funding round. Exceptions are made when multiple applications are received from universities and other large organisations where they represent different faculties, departments or schools, and the proposals are unrelated.
As we are a very small organisation we have limited capacity for face to face meetings. If you cannot find the information you require on our website or within our application form then call us to discuss you query in further detail.
Only ONE application can be considered per applicant in each funding round. Exceptions are made when multiple applications are received from universities and other large organisations where they represent different faculties, departments or schools, and the proposals are unrelated. Please note that your project will be unable to apply for the same project in the future.
The Trust will only consider an application from an organisation once its existing grant has been successfully acquitted. Exceptions are made in the case of universities and other large organisations where they represent different faculties, departments or schools so long as the proposals are unrelated.
No. Your project must have partnership funding whether it be in-kind or cash. Please ensure you list all partnership funding and attach an itemised budget with your application.
No. Your project must be of an innovative nature. Internet costs can be considered as part of a wider more innovative project.
Yes. However your project must be based in Victoria and be for the benefit of Victorians also. You also need to be headquartered in Victoria.
No, the applicant organisation/individual will still hold all IP for the project.
No. The Trust does not support projects that are almost entirely infrastructural and/or equipment. The general rule is equipment can be no more than 50% of the budget. Infrastructure and equipment is generally defined as anything that can be purchased 'off the shelf'.
No. But the Trust will consider funding the costs of a conference to increase learning and share industry knowledge in Victoria.
No, an organisation cannot apply for additional funding for the same project or another project until they have fully acquitted all monies received previously.
Yes, but not for the same project.
Yes. It is advised however that you read all the information on the website prior to calling.
The Trustees of the Telematics Trust encourage both applicants and grantees to network and discuss best practice projects. The Trust will endeavour to keep the website updated with regular case studies on successful projects. Please contact the Administrator if you have any questions on a specific Telematics funded project or if you would like to get in touch with one of our grantees.

For grantees and projects in production

Each project that receives funding is different. Generally you will be expected to submit a Final Report and financial acquittal at the project’s completion. You will receive reporting guidelines and due dates in your award letter. Contact the Secretariat if you are unsure of what your reporting requirements are.
Contact the Secretariat, preferably in writing requesting an extension and outlining the reasons you have fallen behind. This will be assessed quickly and an extension given where appropriate. If you have any concerns regarding this process please phone the Secretariat to discuss.
You will be asked to acquit your project financially. If you find you have a project surplus, please contact the Secretariat to discuss prior to issuing a refund.
The Telematics Trust will only consider grant increases in extremely exceptional circumstances. If your project appears to be going over budget you should contact the Secretariat for advice on revising your project timeline, sourcing additional funding and your reporting requirements.
The Trustees recognize that at times during a project things don’t go to plan. If you are struggling to meet your reporting deadlines or if you need to extend the project completion date, please don’t hesitate to contact the Secretariat. The Secretariat may extend the grant period and reporting deadline once they have a short discussion with you regarding the reason(s) for the delay.
A condition of funding requires grantees to formally acknowledge the Trust and include the Trust’s logo on their project and elsewhere as relevant, e.g. in the annual report, on the organization’s website, publicity and published materials. Further details and a copy of the Trust logo are available from the Secretariat.
Email the Secretariat at admin@telematics.org.au