The Australian government is deploying a total of $4.6 million in grants to support education and collaboration within the country’s quantum industry.
A total of $3.6 million will be awarded to CSIRO to fund up to 20 PhDs in quantum technology as part of the Australian Quantum Graduates Program, according to a statement issued by the Office of Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic.
The funding is intended to help attract and train Australia’s next generation of quantum technology specialists, Husic said.
“Australia is at the forefront of research and development in quantum technology, contributing to breakthroughs for more than two decades,” the minister added.
Australia’s capability is reflected across 22 quantum-related institutions that have nurtured internationally sought-after talent. The country currently has eight universities performing well above the international standard in quantum physics research.
“But we need to build upon that. This includes offering Australians education opportunities in quantum so that we develop a pipeline of talent. This will be fundamental to deliver the 16,000 quantum-related jobs projected by 2040,” Husic said. “Our efforts in quantum also need to be coordinated across the nation, with researchers, industry and government working together to reap the economic and social benefits.”
