The Albanese Labor Government is seeking views to shape the National Quantum Strategy to position Australia as global leader in quantum research and applied technology.
The strategy will ensure Australia seizes the immense opportunity that quantum presents for the country and will set out the new Government’s vision – to have a thriving quantum industry and be at the forefront of global technological innovation.
It will also help inform the decisions of the Albanese Government’s $1 billion Critical Technologies Fund, which will form part of the National Reconstruction Fund.
A consultation paper has been released for industry and stakeholders to have their say on the proposed framework of the strategy.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic said that Australia has a distinct advantage in quantum – with many Australian researchers and businesses behind existing and emerging quantum technology applications in both software and hardware.
“We know Australia is already a global leader when it comes to quantum research and applied technology. This strategy will ensure we maintain our leadership position on the world stage,” Minister Husic said.
“This week, the Nobel Prize for Physics went to pioneers in quantum information science, highlighting the importance of this emerging global industry. It is an industry in which our researchers and companies have an outsized role to play.
“Australia is being sought out for our expertise from international research institutions, corporate technology groups, investors and customers of quantum technologies.
“Recent data shows that the Australian quantum industry is attracting 3.6 per cent of all global venture-capital investment in the quantum industry, well in excess of Australia’s global GDP share of 1.6 per cent.
“We are keen to hear from industry and other stakeholders to make sure we capitalise on those strengths and our potential.”
The consultations will be led by Australia’s Chief Scientist Dr Cathy Foley, who is also chairing the recently established National Quantum Advisory Committee.
The consultation paper can be found at https://consult.industry.gov.au/national-quantum-strategy. Submissions close on 5 November 2022.
