NSW is set to become a global quantum computing powerhouse with $15.4 million funding from the NSW Government to create the Sydney Quantum Academy (SQA).
Minister for Innovation Matt Kean said the SQA is a partnership between the University of Sydney, University of NSW, Macquarie University and University of Technology Sydney.
“With this funding boost we could see extraordinary technological breakthroughs across all sorts of industries, including pharmaceuticals, finance, defence, manufacturing, agriculture and transport,” Mr Kean said.
“Complex calculations could take quantum computers just seconds to process, rather than thousands of years, and medicines could be developed faster, while quantum physics could lead to batteries that charge instantly.
“This is an exciting collaboration between some of our top universities in NSW, which already have unique strengths when it comes to quantum science and engineering.
“Most of our international competitors excel in just one form of quantum science. But here in Sydney, our universities have strengths across a number of fields such as silicon quantum computing, topological quantum computing, trapped ions, quantum software and nanodiamonds.”
Deputy Premier John Barilaro said globally, the quantum industry is expected to be worth more than $150 billion over the next 10 years.
“We want NSW to be a leader in quantum computing and this investment will see universities collaborate and continue the leading work that is already underway here in NSW. We know that for every one quantum computing role created, an estimated five indirect jobs will be generated, these are the jobs of the future,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Our new investment will secure a pipeline of highly skilled quantum engineers, software experts and technicians to build and program these incredible machines as the technology becomes reality.
“We want the SQA to secure investments from key players in the global technology industry and attract the best scientists from around the world to NSW.”
The Sydney Quantum Academy will:
- Encourage students to collaborate and train across the four universities;
- Directly link students to industry through internships and research;
- Support the development of quantum technology startup businesses; and
- Promote Sydney as a global leader in quantum.
The NSW Government funding, combined with current university and future industry support, means the total investment in the SQA will be about $35 million.
NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said there’s currently an international shortage for skills relating to quantum theory, science, engineering and software development.
“Sydney already has one of the largest cohorts of quantum research students – and we want to keep them here,” Professor Durrant-Whyte said.
“The Sydney Quantum Academy will produce the next generation of engineers in quantum technology and cement NSW’s place at the forefront of this revolutionary technology.”
