Quantum Leap: The Game-Changing Potential of a New National Strategy

NSSN welcomes the government’s ambition to place Australia as a global leader in quantum technology,

Last week, Ed Husic, Minister for Industry & Science announced Australia’s first National Quantum Strategy. Led by Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley, the strategy’s key goal is for Australia to be recognised as the leader of the global quantum industry. 

The strategy outlines five major themes: 

  1. creating thriving research, development and investment in quantum technologies 

  2. securing access to essential quantum infrastructure and materials 

  3. building a skilled and growing quantum workforce 

  4. ensuring our standards and frameworks support national interests 

  5. building a trusted, ethical and inclusive quantum ecosystem 

The NSW Smart Sensing Network (NSSN) was recognised in the strategy through a collaborative case study with the Australian National University (ANU) and Sydney Water. 

Led by the Head of the Quantum Science department at the ANU, Professor John Close worked with Sydney Water in an Australian first, investigating the use of quantum technology to monitor pipe leakages without having to dig underground or attach costly wires. 

The project highlighted the possibilities that come when impactful research works seamlessly with industry to solve key issues that affect Australia. This is highlighted in the strategy which states:  

“Australia’s quantum ambition will not be realised by working alone – every part of the quantum ecosystem needs to work towards the same goal, including through investments. The government will drive the implementation of the strategy, but other partners will lead some actions and initiatives. We will draw on the strengths of industry, businesses, universities, states, territories and international partners to ensure Australia realises its quantum opportunity.” 

Co-Director of the NSSN Professor Benjamin Eggleton welcomed the National Quantum Strategy and highlighted the NSSN’s ability to play a key role in delivering it. 

“The NSSN has been at the forefront of delivering collaborative projects using quantum technology through our member universities and industry partners, using impactful research to address key issues across Australia. 

We welcome the government’s ambition to place Australia as a global leader in quantum technology, and the NSSN is uniquely placed with our member universities to ensure that this goal becomes a reality.” 

The NSSN has a successful history of working with our member universities who have deep expertise in quantum technology and helping them to build effective partnerships with industry that can help solve Australia’s most pressing issues.  

Professor Close also led a key NSSN project “Where Is All The Water?” that used quantum sensors to enhance water resource management in NSW. The project included UNSW, the University of Sydney, Australian National University and Macquarie University.  

The national quantum strategy will help capitalise on our members’ significant knowledge to ensure that Australia stands at the forefront of these game-changing technological advances. 

 Media: Jonathan Drennan | NSSN | 0468 765 816 | jonathan.drennan@nssn.org.au 

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