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Tax benefits for foreign investors to invest in Australia's venture capital sector
As part of decisions taken in the 2026-27 Budget, the Government has announced that the Eligible Venture Capital Investor (EVCI) Program will close to new applications as of 7.30pm (AEST) 12 May 2026, subject to amendments to the Venture Capital Act 2002.
Eligible Venture Capital Investors
You can apply at any time using the application form.
What do you get?
Register as an EVCI to get equivalent tax benefits to that which the investor could have from investing through a limited partnership registered under Part 2 of the Venture Capital Act 2002 (VCA).
Who is this for?
Foreign investors seeking to invest directly in Australian businesses.
About the program
The EVCI program aims to stimulate Australia's venture capital sector. The program:
- grants foreign entities equivalent tax benefits to partnerships registered under the VCA
- enables entities to get tax benefits from direct investments, rather than through a partnership
- helps Australian businesses grow by receiving financial support.
Entities can apply to Industry, Innovation and Science Australia (IISA) to register as an EVCI.
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) jointly administer the program on behalf of the Australian Government.
How it works
Applicants must apply to IISA for registration under the VCA. IISA has delegated its decision-making powers for EVCI program to authorised delegates.
A delegate must register an entity as an EVCI if all information required under section 21-5 of the VCA is included in the application.
A registered EVCI must meet ongoing registration and reporting requirements under the VCA to maintain its registration.
Once registered the eligible foreign investor can claim tax benefits on eligible venture capital investments.
Contact
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