Gov gives quantum computing a major funding boost

Multiple government funds are boosting quantum computing in the country following investment in company Quantum Brilliance and University of Western Australia research programs.

The AFR is reporting that the $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund has acquired a $13 million stake in Quantum Brilliance, an aspiring quantum computers manufacturer.

The investment will fund a facility to make diamonds for quantum computers and support a research hub run with La Trobe and RMIT universities.

Quantum computers can run and calculate thousands of times faster than traditional computers.

However, most quantum computers need to operate at very low temperatures – often just below absolute zero – as heat causes errors in the ‘qubits’ which are the building blocks of quantum computing.

Quantum Brilliance’s computers can potentially run at room temperature, opening up their range of applications.

Earlier this year, Germany’s Cyber Agency also awarded Australian company Quantum Brilliance a contract to develop mobile quantum computers by 2027.

Quantum Brilliance to build mobile quantum computer

Quantum researchers at the University of Western Australia have also received a boost, as they focus on its defence applications.

The government’s Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator’s (ASCA) Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDT) program is providing $2m in funding to the uni’s Centre for Quantum Information, Simulation and Algorithm (QUISA) at the School of Physics, Mathematics and Computing.

Project lead Professor Jingbo Wang said they aim to develop cutting-edge quantum algorithms designed for real-time logistics optimisation and complex image analysis.

“Quantum computers have the potential to revolutionise fields such as logistics, intelligence, and cybersecurity. Our project aims to harness this power for the benefit of the Australian Defence Force,” Wang said.

“By combining expertise at QUISA in quantum computing, machine learning, image processing, and high-performance computing, we're developing new tools to tackle complex challenges. These tools may help the Australian Defence Force make faster, more informed decisions in critical situations.”

Last month, Federal Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic released the first State of Australian Quantum report outlining the potential of the country’s national quantum sector.