If you're not in debt, maybe you can save a very minimum nest egg (1 month of expenses, whatever you need to find a job in case it fails), and go for it, since it looks that the worst case scenario is going back to a job that can't be much worse than where you are now.
I certainly agree with toyg's advice, if you believe in your project, then go for it. Also, your deadline might be artificial (I don't know what you're building), it's good to get an MVP out there fast, but not being first to market might not be a killer.
Edit: I found a lot with just a basic web search. I understand they might not want to fund you if you stay part-time though.
Edit again: maybe you can get some kind of government agency to help you out, there are Early Stage Funds, Grants, etc... plenty of help around :)
http://www.business.gov.au/grants-and-assistance/grant-finde...
See also
https://angel.co/australia/investors
If you're not in debt, maybe you can save a very minimum nest egg (1 month of expenses, whatever you need to find a job in case it fails), and go for it, since it looks that the worst case scenario is going back to a job that can't be much worse than where you are now.
I certainly agree with toyg's advice, if you believe in your project, then go for it. Also, your deadline might be artificial (I don't know what you're building), it's good to get an MVP out there fast, but not being first to market might not be a killer.