The Federal Government has announced a $44 million investment to establish four Artificial Intelligence and Digital Capability Centres.
The Capability Centres will help to commercialize Australia’s leading AI research and bring it to new domestic and international markets.
Small and medium businesses will also benefit from the Centres’ AI expertise, allowing them to apply AI solutions to help them grow and create more jobs.
The Centres are part of the government’s $124.1 million AI Action Plan, which aims to make Australia a global leader in the development and adoption of trustworthy, secure, and responsible AI.
Melissa Price, the Minister for Science and Technology, said the government was following through on the AI Action Plan, ensuring Australia was a leader in the development and adoption of AI products and services.
“The Centres will act as a front door for SMEs to improve their AI skills in order to adopt AI products in their businesses,” Minister Price said.
“They will draw together industries, research institutions, innovation hubs and businesses to create an ecosystem that drives innovation, commercialisation, and adoption of AI.
“Our Government will continue to bolster the growth of AI by increasing the sharing of knowledge, supporting shared projects, and promoting long-term job creation.
“By requiring the Centres to focus on a priority area we can tailor the support for businesses to drive our manufacturing capability.”
Each applicant is required to specify a focus area in specific AI applications that support the Government’s National Manufacturing Priorities as part of the Modern Manufacturing Initiative, or the Digital Growth Priorities as part of the Digital Economy Strategy, which aims to position Australia as a leading digital economy and society by 2030.
According to the government’s statement, each of the four new Centres is eligible for a grant of up to $11 million.
Applicants must submit joint proposals with at least one industry partner and build on existing technology, manufacturing hub or university.
The applicants are required to cover 25% of the overall project costs and may make extra in-kind contributions.
The new Centres will collaborate with CSIRO’s Data61 to boost Australia’s AI skills and capabilities.
Visit https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/ai-digital-capability-centres for additional information on the grant application.
