Quantum tech is a high-stakes gamble. Here’s how Australia can find a way forward
Quantum technologies – which may soon provide huge advances in computing, communication and sensing – are rapidly growing in strategic importance.
AIP encourages Australians to take part in Quantum Year 2025
The Australian Institute of Physics (AIP) has invited Australians to join in recognising quantum, a branch of science which “seems mysterious” but underpins much of modern life. The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology on June 7, chosen due to the century anniversary “since the initial…
Applications open under $36 million program for applying quantum technologies to national challenges
The federal government has called for applications from industry-research teams for the new $36 million Critical Technologies Challenge Program, aiming to “capture the power and potential of quantum technologies to address nationally significant challenges”. In a statement from industry minister Ed Husic on Wednesday, it was said that the program will speed up commercialisation for…
Australia may spend hundreds of millions of dollars on quantum computing research. Are we chasing a mirage?
By Timothy Duignan, Griffith University The Australian government is going all in on quantum computing. After investing more than $100 million on “quantum technology” in 2021, it is now reportedly considering spending up to $200 million on purchasing a “quantum computer” from a US company. Is this a sensible decision? You might think so, if…
Applications open for $18.5 million to establish new Australian Centre for Quantum Growth
The federal government has announced that funding of $18.5 million is available to set up an Australian Centre for Quantum Growth, part of efforts to see the nation does not “fritter away” a strong position in the early days of quantum technology commercialisation. Federal industry minister Ed Husic officially opened applications for the grant during…
Queensland quantum strategy shoots for the stars
A new strategy to support the continued growth of the quantum technology industry has been launched by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk during her CEDA State of the State address. The strategy leverages Queensland’s research and fabrication capabilities across quantum and other related technologies such as semiconductors, superconductors, photonics, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), for industry sectors…
Hopes fade for ‘room temperature superconductor’ LK-99, but quantum zero-resistance research continues
By Michael Fuhrer, Monash University The past few weeks have seen a huge surge of interest among scientists and the public in a material called LK-99 after it was claimed to be a superconductor at room temperature and ambient pressure. LK-99 garnered attention after South Korean researchers posted two papers about it on arXiv, a…