National Quantum Strategy

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.

Quantum technologies will make a difference improving economic and national wellbeing. They have the potential to inform new drug discoveries, support emissions reduction, help us transition to a net zero economy and safeguard resilient cyber infrastructure. It’s no longer ‘if’, but ‘when’. Commercialising quantum technologies could create an Australian quantum industry worth $2.2 billion and directly employing 8,700 people by 2030. This could reach approximately $6 billion and 19,400 jobs by 2045. These technologies are expected to add billions of dollars of value to related industries in that timeframe.