Laura Brannelly’s patience is being tested. A wildlife conservation specialist working with threatened frog species, her future rests squarely on whether one of her two grant applications to the Australian Research Council is successful.

Around 5000 researchers across the country are still waiting for a public decision on $320 million in successful grants. Due last month, this is the latest the announcement has been made in 30 years and it is having a rolling impact on the lives of many researchers whose careers are wholly dependent on success.