iTWire - Australian federal government releases a national quantum strategy

Thursday, 04 May 2023 10:08

Australian federal government releases a national quantum strategy Featured

Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic launched the Federal Government’s quantum strategy yesterday, which included a commitment that Australia would build a first-in-the-world error corrected quantum computer within ten years.

In announcing the strategy document, Minister Husic said, “Australia’s leadership in quantum technologies today is the result of sustained investment over decades. It’s a success story that speaks to patient public investment in basic research, the lure of our world-leading educational institutions and uniquely Australian skills and know-how. Now, with use of quantum technologies poised to grow globally by 33% over the next 5 years, and countries ramping up investment in domestic quantum capabilities, we cannot afford to lose our globally recognised edge.

“Thirty years ago, Australian universities were some of the few in the world to offer postgraduate qualifications in quantum physics. Today, graduates of those programs are leading projects around the world, in industry and academia, from IBM to Alphabet, from the University of Bristol to Stanford University in the United States. Australian talent is here and overseas, and has been behind a range of breakthroughs in quantum applications, including quantum random number generators for cyber security and sensors for mining.

“Quantum technologies are here, now. Throughout this strategy are examples of Australian-made innovations that have already moved from new ideas in university labs to commercial products used by industries. Quantum sensors are being deployed to detect ore deposits buried deep underground. Quantum random number generators are making global banking more efficient and more secure. Quantum control infrastructure software is being put to work on public transport optimisation challenges. And quantum computing – which is poised to transform industries and unlock previously intractable challenges – is edging closer to reality.”

“This National Quantum Strategy has been eagerly awaited - not just by our local ecosystem, but by international partners. It will be a useful guide for investments in quantum technologies by private and public investors alike. It will support the Australian Government in developing closer ties with trusted partners to collaborate on investments in quantum infrastructure and quantum solutions to global problems.

“The Australian Government is revitalising manufacturing and investing in the skills, capabilities and strengths that sustain a resilient, innovative economy. Quantum technologies are critical to Australia’s national interests. We should all be proud of the outsized impact Australian quantum research and innovation has had on the global stage. And we must continue to grow our capabilities here.”

According to the strategy document Australia is on the cusp of a transformation driven by advances in technology. With the right policy, regulatory and economic framework, this transformation will:

• modernise our economy
• improve our society
• support national interests
• create high-paying jobs for future generations.

Quantum technologies are at the centre of this transformation, enabling potential new manufacturing techniques, drug treatments and advances in foundational science.

The stated vision is to… In 2030, Australia is recognised as a leader of the global quantum industry, and quantum technologies are integral to a prosperous, fair and inclusive Australia.

The National Quantum Strategy has 5 central themes. Each theme has a set of actions over 7 years that will position Australia for success. The themes are focused on:

• creating thriving research and development, investment in and use of quantum technologies
• securing access to essential quantum infrastructure and materials
• building a skilled and growing quantum workforce
• ensuring our standards and frameworks support national interests
• building a trusted, ethical and inclusive quantum ecosystem

The strategy outlines how the Australian Government will deliver on its vision. It also signals areas the government may consider in the future, including investment opportunities.

Australia’s quantum ambition will not be realised by working alone – every part of the quantum ecosystem needs to work towards the same goal, including through investments. The government will drive the implementation of the strategy, but other partners will lead some actions and initiatives. We will draw on the strengths of industry, businesses, universities, states, territories and international partners to ensure Australia realises its quantum opportunity.

Further, Australia’s chief scientist, Dr Cathy Foley noted that “Australia has had its finger on the quantum pulse since Professors RQ Twiss and AG Little published the first paper on time-correlated photons in 1959. Since then, and especially in the past 25 years, we’ve made significant research investment, resulting in an emerging Australian quantum industry that is destined to have a significant impact on all of our lives.

“The impact of the quantum revolution will be comparable to the digital revolution that brought us transistors and lasers, which are the basis of all our modern electronics, computers and communications.”

There is much to digest in this document and it is commended to our readers.

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