University of Sydney welcomes National Quantum Strategy

The University of Sydney welcomes the National Quantum Strategy announced today by the Minister for Industry and Science, the Hon. Ed Husic MP, and Australia’s Chief Scientist, Dr Cathy Foley.

We look forward to working with the Australian Government to deliver on the promise of quantum technologies.

The University of Sydney Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Emma Johnston said: “It is heartening to see such an ambitious strategy for quantum technologies.

“Combined with continued and deepening investment in fundamental research through the Australian Research Council and other government initiatives, this can deliver a positive platform to deliver Australia’s quantum future.”

Professor Stephen Bartlett is head of the University of Sydney Quantum Theory Group and Associate Dean (Research) in the Faculty of Science.

He said: “Alongside the National Quantum Strategy announced today, it is vital that the government continues its strong investment in fundamental quantum science research.

“Delivering on the promise of quantum computing still requires us to tackle big open challenges in basic science and engineering. That’s why the University of Sydney is investing in the Future Qubit Foundry. Tomorrow’s quantum computers will use qubits that are yet to be invented.”

Quantum tech at the University 

Australia is a global leader in quantum technologies and University of Sydney researchers are at the core of this leadership. Our research strengths range from fundamental physics and quantum information science through to technology development, incorporating a diverse range of physical platforms.

Our scientific pursuits are complemented by deep industry engagement and entrepreneurial activities. The University of Sydney hosts a node of the Microsoft Quantum network led by Professor David Reilly and our quantum effort also resulted in the formation of Australia’s first venture-capital backed quantum-tech start-up, Q-CTRL, founded by Professor Michael Biercuk. 

In 2020, the University was instrumental in launching the Sydney Quantum Academy, a partnership of four universities in Sydney with the NSW Government.

This year, the University of Sydney has announced a $7.4 million investment to expand its quantum technology facilities to establish the Future Qubit Foundry at the Sydney Nanoscience Hub. This foundry will be a national-leading facility to invent the technology of tomorrow’s quantum computers, enabling them to operate at scale and be of use to society.

The National Quantum Strategy describes the central role that research universities will play in developing an Australian quantum technology ecosystem. Our researchers will continue to work at the cutting edge of quantum science and engage with both our existing industry partnerships and develop new ones to translate our scientific insight into tomorrow’s quantum industry. 

The Future Qubit Foundry can serve as a lightning rod, attracting emerging quantum industries to leverage our world-class research infrastructure to design the next generation of qubit technologies. And we will continue our efforts as a partner in the Sydney Quantum Academy, training the skilled and growing quantum workforce that is critical to a dynamic technology ecosystem in Australia.