|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Quantum technologies, essential in devices like phones and MRIs, are rapidly advancing. Queensland aims to lead in this field with a multi-million-dollar strategy launched in 2023 to boost economic growth and tackle challenges. The government is advancing this goal of becoming a global leader in quantum technology with the launch of five competitive grant programmes. These initiatives aim to boost the development and application of quantum and advanced technologies, attract investment, promote collaboration, cultivate a skilled workforce, support decarbonisation efforts, and drive innovations in sports technology, particularly in preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Guided by Quantum Innovation Queensland, an advisory group led by Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson, these grant programmes have been meticulously designed. The group includes experts from universities, science organisations, venture capital, startups, and industry, ensuring that they align with Queensland’s scientific and technological needs.
The grant programmes are part of the broader Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy, which benefits from an AU$83.7 million investment over five years as outlined in the 2024-25 Budget. This strategy aims to leverage over thirty years of quantum research in Queensland to turn world-class scientific breakthroughs into practical applications across various sectors.
Queensland’s strategy is groundbreaking, as it is the first Australian state to implement a comprehensive quantum strategy. Quantum science, which explores particles and energy at the sub-atomic level, holds transformative potential in fields such as computing, precision measurement, communications, and healthcare. Its applications are vast and could revolutionise areas like environmental sustainability, materials science, sports, and medicine.
The strategy extends beyond quantum science to include related technologies such as compound semiconductors, superconductors, photonics, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). These technologies are essential for designing and manufacturing quantum devices and have wider applications, including in semiconductor-based components used in renewable energy systems.
The five grants target specific areas within quantum and advanced technologies:
- Quantum Commercialisation Infrastructure Programme (AU$20 million): Focuses on developing infrastructure and supporting the commercialisation of quantum and advanced technology systems, devices, and components.
- Quantum and Advanced Technologies Co-Investment Fund (AU$15 million): Aims to attract new investment and encourage collaboration in the development and application of these technologies.
- Quantum Decarbonisation Mission (AU$10 million): Concentrates on advancing quantum technologies that contribute significantly to decarbonisation efforts.
- Quantum 2032 Challenge Programme (AU$5 million): Catalyses the development of quantum-based innovations in sports technology in preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- Quantum and Advanced Technologies Talent Building Programme (AU$3.81 million): Focuses on developing a diverse and skilled workforce in these advanced fields.
Queensland’s approach underscores its commitment to becoming a major hub for quantum technology in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. The strategy aims to attract investment, create jobs, and position Queensland as a leader in addressing global challenges with deep technology solutions.
Recent successes bolster Queensland’s efforts, including support for The University of Queensland’s bid to establish the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology. This centre will be the world’s first of its kind, focusing on advancing quantum biotechnology.
Australia’s CSIRO estimates that the economic return from quantum science could reach AU$ 2.2 billion and create 8,700 jobs by 2030, with potential growth to nearly AU$ 6 billion and 19,400 jobs by 2045. Additionally, the Miles and Albanese Governments have announced a nearly AU$1 billion investment in a leading quantum computing company to build the world’s first fault-tolerant quantum computer in Brisbane, generating up to 400 highly skilled jobs.
To address future workforce needs, Queensland is establishing the Queensland Quantum Academy, which will provide essential skills for emerging jobs. Through these strategic investments, Queensland is positioning itself at the forefront of the quantum revolution, ready to harness the transformative potential of quantum and advanced technologies for a sustainable and prosperous future.
