Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, has launched a new strategy which is expected to support the growth of the quantum technology industry in the state, supporting industry sectors such as renewable energy, critical minerals and batteries.
Ms Palaszczuk launched the Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy during her recent CEDA State of the State address.
The strategy leverages Queensland’s outstanding research and fabrication capabilities across quantum and other related technologies such as semiconductors, superconductors, photonics, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), for application in a range of industry sectors.
It will also support the commercialisation of research and intellectual property in Queensland by attracting and building new advanced technology businesses in the state, creating skilled jobs on home soil.
The strategy has five key pillars:
- Deep science capability to maintain Queensland’s leadership position in quantum science
- Science commercialisation to grow the local quantum and advanced technologies pipeline
- Quantum workforce to train, attract and retain the skilled people needed for a quantum ecosystem
- Engagement and missions to help industry to become adept at using deep science to solve Queensland’s challenges
- Investment to attract external commitments into the Queensland quantum ecosystem
The strategy was prepared in consultation with Griffith University, Queensland University of Technology, The University of Queensland, University of Southern Queensland, and key quantum and advanced technology companies.
Delivery of the strategy will be overseen by Quantum Innovation Queensland, a new governance group with representatives from universities, industry and government and led by the incoming Queensland Chief Scientist.
Additionally, a new Quantum and Advanced Technologies Directorate will be formed within the Department of Environment and Science to be a ‘front door’ for the quantum sector, deliver the strategy’s programs, and foster the long-term growth of the quantum and advanced technologies sector.
Ms Palaszczuk said that she wants Queensland to be at the forefront of new technologies and take a leading position in quantum research.
“Our government is determined to build upon the foundation we have as the Smart State in powering the second quantum revolution,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“To do this, we are launching a new strategy backed by $76 million in investment – to develop new technologies, support school programs and build the infrastructure needed.
“This means more Queenslanders will have the opportunity to have good, high paying and secure jobs in the careers of the future.
“Because the future of quantum is in Queensland.”
Queensland Minister for Science, Leanne Linard, said that Quantum science will be critical in helping to solve national and global challenges and will revolutionise several key fields and industries.
“The Queensland Government is committed to creating trailblazing industries from Queensland’s science and that’s why we are investing to help grow the state’s quantum ecosystem and ensure we remain at the forefront of ‘deep’ technology,” Ms Linard said.
“This ground-breaking investment in the suite of quantum-related technologies will also give Queensland businesses access to a range of fast-growing markets for both quantum and classical products including power electronics components, sensors, and LEDs.
“It will also position Queensland to supply critical inputs for the global quantum computing industry and will support the continued development of quantum biotechnology innovations.
“The Strategy includes commercialisation-focused funding programs across infrastructure, startup support, quantum skills, industry engagement and investment attraction, including $18 million for translation initiatives such as the Queensland Quantum Foundry and the Quantum Bioinnovator, and $20 million for industry-accessible fabrication infrastructure.”
University of Queensland’s Head of Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Engineered Quantum Systems, Professor Andrew White, said that this level of investment will make Queensland a global player in the next era of quantum technology.
“Our researchers are leading the state’s first quantum technology startup, Analog Quantum Circuits (AQC), by developing superconducting circuits for quantum computers out of Brisbane,” Mr White said.
“Queensland has exceptional expertise in quantum technology which has the power to benefit industry, improve lives and help combat climate change.”
The strategy is available here.
