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Universities can help Australia lead the world in future technologies

05 May 2023

The National Quantum Strategy released today provides a great opportunity for higher education institutions to help solve some of our most significant national challenges, according to the Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN).

WEDNESDAY 3 MAY 2023

Media Release – ATN Universities – National Quantum Strategy – how universities can help Australia lead the world in future tech

The National Quantum Strategy released today provides a great opportunity for higher education institutions to help solve some of our most significant national challenges, according to the Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN).

ATN Executive Director, Luke Sheehy, said the ATN universities have the expertise to deliver research, skills and infrastructure in defence, security and quantum spaces.

“Our universities are already blazing a trail in this area. The strategy provided case studies showcasing the excellent work being undertaken by The University of Technology Sydney and RMIT University. Both universities are already participating in significant projects and displaying their great capabilities in emerging technologies,” Mr Sheehy said.

“We congratulate Industry Minister, The Hon. Ed Husic, and Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley AO, on their commitment to futuristic technology as a driver for a fair and prosperous Australia and stand ready to support the Government in this competitive field.”

The Strategy paves the way for ATN Universities to develop new partnerships, domestic and global, and leverage existing relationships, such as our long-standing collaboration with the German Technology Universities.

Research commercialisation is the path to transforming Australia’s early advances and expertise in quantum into a $6 billion industry employing 20,000 people that the Strategy forecasts. The Government must build upon the success of initiatives such as Trailblazer Universities and Startup Year to bring that same attitude to the development of quantum.

Other significant opportunities for ATN universities include:

• Using our expertise to address significant national challenges
• Leveraging our industry partnerships to translate and commercialise research; and,
• Delivering the skilled workforce needed for quantum technologies.
Universities will be key partners for the Government in incorporating quantum into defence and security agreements like AUKUS and the Quad and using quantum technologies to further Australia’s regional partnership and development goals.

“We look forward to hearing more about the measures in next week’s Federal Budget and contributing to the development and implementation of the Strategy,” added Mr Sheehy.