AusAID Development Research Awards Scheme 2012 The Australian Development Research Awards Scheme (ADRAS) formerly known as the AusAID Development Research Awards Scheme is a competitive research program, funding primary research projects to improve the quality and effectiveness of Australian aid in developing countries. Funding under this initiative supports the ADRAS Research on priority development themes to inform policy development including mining for development, disability inclusion, gender equality, education, health and needs in Africa. The total value of this initiative is $32.9 million over 5 years, starting 2012-13.