Quantum and advanced technologies

Making Queensland a home for quantum

Quantum technologies are rapidly becoming one the most important and transformative technologies developed in our lifetime. While the science that underpins quantum is complex, it can be found in many common applications that we use or depend upon to enrich our lives every day. For example, the technology found in our mobile phones and medical imaging machines (MRIs) have their origins in the laws of quantum theory.

Queensland is at the forefront of quantum and advanced technologies research in Australia and has a long history of investing in the future of our brightest minds. Today, Queensland researchers can be found in quantum related fields right across the world and in all disciplines. These range from fundamental quantum physics research to applied science and innovation that is impacting how we go about many aspects of our lives.

New developments in quantum science have brought with them more potential applications, some of which are challenging what is currently possible using conventional technology. As such, quantum and the advanced technologies that underpin it are attracting considerable global interest.

Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy

The $76 million Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy (PDF, 2.9MB) , launched in 2023, will harness Queensland’s expertise in quantum technologies for accelerated economic growth and transformative solutions to some of our most pressing challenges. It builds on Queensland’s strengths and focuses on supporting those elements of the quantum industry ecosystem that support the translation of quantum science and advanced technologies out of the laboratory and into applications that benefit our community in the real world.

The strategy has five key pillars to further develop Queensland’s deep science capability, research commercialisation, quantum workforce development, engagement and missions, and investment.

The programs of the Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy include:

• the Queensland Quantum Foundry to support a quantum and advanced technologies incubator to foster science-led startup company development and scale-up
• the Quantum Bioinnovator to translate quantum biotechnologies into biomedical and bioeconomy applications
• the Commercialisation Infrastructure Program for co-investment alongside the Australian Government, universities and industry in testing and fabrication infrastructure to support prototyping and small batch production of quantum and advanced technology devices
• the Quantum and Advanced Technologies Talent Building Program to attract and retain talented prospective scientist-founders, with an emphasis on supporting women and other under-represented groups
• the Quantum Decarbonisation Mission which aimed to accelerate the development and application of quantum technologies that can make a significant contribution to decarbonisation
• the Quantum 2032 Challenge to showcase Queensland quantum technologies during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
• the Quantum and Advanced Technologies Co-investment Program to co-invest in relevant science and translation initiatives alongside the Australian Government and other funders.

The Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy complements the broad national effort underway to build Australia’s sovereign capability in quantum technologies. The National Quantum Strategy (2023–2030) provides a framework and long-term vision for Australia to realise the opportunities represented by quantum technologies.

Embracing a strategic approach toward emerging industries

The Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy seeks to leverage Queensland's inherent advantage in quantum technologies to spearhead the development of innovative industries, foster new enterprises, and generate employment opportunities. The strategy outlines a comprehensive blueprint for nurturing a robust quantum research and commercialisation ecosystem poised to attract top talent and investment within the Indo-Pacific region.

In addition to quantum technologies, the strategy encompasses a broad spectrum of related fields including photonics, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), superconductors, compound semiconductors, and the requisite testing, engineering, and fabrication capabilities essential for prototype development and small-scale production.

This strategic approach offers several key advantages:

• concentration of all necessary capabilities within a single hub facilitates streamlined pathways for bringing new quantum products to market
• opportunity to leverage significant synergies in manufacturing processes across different technologies enhance efficiency and competitiveness
• each supporting technology presents unique product and market opportunities, diversifying the potential for economic growth
• common training and workforce requirements create opportunities to establish an integrated education and training framework spanning multiple universities, ensuring a skilled workforce tailored to industry needs
• flexibility in organising and managing facilities enables customisation to meet the specific demands of industry partners.

Collectively, these technology clusters unlock a vast array of potential applications to catalyse significant advancements and economic prosperity throughout Queensland.

Quantum Innovation Queensland

Quantum Innovation Queensland (QIQ) is the collaborative vehicle for developing the Queensland quantum ecosystem by providing advice to government on the implementation of the Queensland Quantum and Advanced Technologies Strategy.

Learn more about Quantum Innovation Queensland.

Team Queensland

Queensland’s innovation ecosystem is characterised by industry, research and government working together as Team Queensland to grow new industries and support traditional industries, using innovation to gain a competitive edge. Key government strategies such as the Advance Queensland industry roadmaps and the Queensland new-industry development strategy are underpinned by an exceptional, education and talent pipeline, translation capabilities and infrastructure.

Learn more about Queensland capabilities in quantum and advanced technologies.

Quantum and Advanced Technology Programs

Queensland is investing in a variety of innovative programs to strengthen and diversify its quantum and advanced technologies ecosystem.

Learn more about Queensland’s quantum and advanced technologies grant programs.