WA automation precinct offers operational testing

The Western Australian government has opened its Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct (AARP), billed as a ‘world class innovation hub to drive advancements in autonomous systems, robotics and zero-emissions technologies’.

Located on 51 hectares north of Perth, the $28 million precinct offers state-of-the-art facilities to support local, national and global companies with testing and development of emerging technologies without interrupting day-to-day operations, according to the government.

A 1200sqm common-user AARP headquarters (pictured) features co-working offices and meeting rooms, research and development space, showcasing areas, workshop facilities, laboratories, small-scale fabrication facilities and training rooms.

Six large test zones are available for lease ranging from one to 22 hectares, making up what the AARP said was Australia’s largest operational testing, development and innovation environment.

“The sites have been purpose built to suit a broad range of industries to develop, test and showcase products and services in real-world environments, without the need to disrupt operations or production.”

The facilities at AARP HQ will be serviced by the construction of a renewable energy hub, with connectivity available to company operations elsewhere.

WA has been a leader in the application of automation and autonomous systems in large-scale mining and logistics, backed by Australian research groups including the Australian Centre for Field Robotics at the University of Sydney.

Government forecasts forecasts suggest that the AARP will contribute between $450 million and $600 million in economic benefits to Western Australia by 2030.

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Picture: Australian Automation and Robotics Precinct