The Australian Government has unveiled two substantial programs dedicated to bolstering the nation's prominence in the rapidly evolving quantum and critical technologies sector, as per details released from the 2023-24 Budget.
Spearheading this drive is The Australian Centre for Quantum Growth and the Critical Technologies Challenge Program, which is set to transform the country's quantum ecosystem over the next four years.
Earlier in July, consultations took place regarding the $19.8 million allocation for the Australian Centre for Quantum Growth.
Currently, the government is seeking public input concerning the $40.2 million earmarked for the Critical Technologies Challenges Program.
This call for feedback underlines the government's commitment to crafting a program that truly resonates with and benefits the Australian industry.
Have your say on #AusGov’s $40m Critical Technologies Challenge Program and shape our #quantum future.Register to join an August workshop: https://t.co/N9SBEodxWb #AusQuantum #CriticalTech pic.twitter.com/xeaaO0eQn6
— TechnologyAU (@TechGovAu) August 7, 2023
Primary objectives
This pioneering move aspires to elevate quantum tech awareness and integration in Australia by forging dynamic collaborations between quantum specialists, businesses, industries and broader societal entities.
The primary objectives of these initiatives are:
- supporting collaborative research and development;
- undertaking education and awareness activities;
- increasing international collaboration, export and investment;
- demonstrating Australian capability; and
- driving demand and uptake of quantum technologies.
The government has ramped up its commitment to the technological sector, unveiling a fresh investment aimed at solidifying its pledge to generate 1.2 million tech-centric jobs by 2030.
This initiative will not only enhance local expertise and infrastructure but also propel the adoption of prioritized technologies.
Complementing the previously announced $1 billion from the National Reconstruction Fund for critical technologies, delineated in the October 2022 Budget, this latest commitment earmarks substantial resources for the quantum and AI domains.
To maintain our leading edge in #AusQuantum #AusGov has committed funding in the 2023-24 Budget:• $40.2 million to deliver a Critical Technologies Challenge Program
• $19.8 million to establish the Australian Centre for Quantum Growth
Learn more: https://t.co/vVqan4WGYS
— Department of Industry, Science and Resources (@IndustryGovAu) May 22, 2023