Quantum leap: Sydney’s leading role in the next tech wave

Australia plays a crucial role in global scientific endeavours, with a significant contribution recognised and valued worldwide. Despite comprising only 0.3% of the world’s population, it has contributed over 4% of the world’s published research.  

Renowned for collaboration, Australian scientists work across disciplines and with international counterparts to achieve impactful outcomes. Notably excelling in medical sciences, engineering, and biological sciences, Australia also has globally recognised expertise in astronomy, physics and computer science. 

As the country’s innovation hub and leveraging its robust scientific infrastructure, world-class universities and vibrant ecosystem, Sydney is making its mark on this burgeoning industry.  

The city’s commitment to quantum research and development is evidenced by its groundbreaking advancements and substantial government support, positioning it at the forefront of the quantum revolution.  

Sydney’s blend of academic excellence, industry collaboration and strategic government initiatives is creating a fertile ground for cutting-edge quantum advancements. 

Sydney’s quantum industry is bolstered by the Sydney Quantum Academy (SQA), a collaboration between four top-tier universities: University of NSW Sydney (UNSW Sydney), the University of Sydney (USYD), University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and Macquarie University. SQA integrates over 100 experts, fostering a dynamic quantum research and development environment.  

With strong government backing Sydney is poised for significant growth in quantum technology, with a projected A$2.2 billion industry value and 8,700 jobs by 2030. The SQA’s mission is to cultivate a quantum-literate workforce, support industry partnerships and accelerate the development of quantum technology. 

Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer, emphasises Sydney’s unique position: “We’ve invested in quantum for 20 years, and we have some of the best people at the Quantum Academy in Sydney. This investment and talent pool make Sydney an ideal place for pioneering quantum research and attracting global talent.” 

UNSW’s Centre of Excellence for Quantum Computation and Communication Technology is at the heart of Sydney’s quantum advancements. Led by Scientia Professor Michelle Simmons AO, the founder and CEO of Silicon Quantum Computing, this centre is pioneering efforts to develop the world’s first practical supercomputer. This team is at the vanguard of precision atomic electronics, pioneering the fabrication of devices in silicon that are pivotal for both conventional and quantum computing applications and they have created the narrowest conducting wires and the smallest precision transistors. 

Simmons was named 2018 Australian of the Year and won the 2023 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science for her work in creating the new field of atomic electronics.  She is an Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow, a Fellow of the Royal Society of London, the American Academy of Arts and Science, the American Association of the Advancement of Science, the UK Institute of Physics, the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering and the Australian Academy of Science.

In response to her 2023 accolade, Simmons said: “Twenty years ago, the ability to manipulate individual atoms and put them where we want in a device architecture was unimaginable. We can now not only put atoms in place but can connect complete circuitry with atomic precision—a capability that was developed entirely in Australia.” 

In April 2024, the Australian Centre for Quantum Growth program, part of the National Quantum Strategy, provided a substantial four-year grant to support the quantum industry’s expansion in Australia. Managed by the University of Sydney, the initiative aims to establish a central hub that fosters industry growth, collaboration, and research coordination.  

This centre will serve as a primary resource for the quantum sector, enhancing Australia’s global competitiveness by promoting industry-led solutions and advancing technology adoption both domestically and internationally. Additionally, the centre will emphasise ethical practices and security in the development and application of quantum technologies. 

Additionally, Sydney hosts several leading quantum startups, such as Silicon Quantum Computing, Quantum Brilliance, Duraq and Q-CTRL, which focus on improving the performance and stability of quantum systems.  

Sydney’s universities are globally recognised for their contributions to quantum research. They nurture future quantum leaders, and their academic prowess attracts top talent and fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration.

The UNSW Sydney is, one of Sydney’s universities, ranked among the world’s top 20 universities, and boasts the largest concentration of academics working in AI and quantum technologies in Australia.

UNSW Sydney Professor Toby Walsh is Laureate Fellow and Scientia Professor of Artificial Intelligence at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of New South Wales. He explains the significance of this academic strength: “Our students and researchers are at the cutting edge of quantum science. The collaborative efforts within Sydney’s academic institutions are creating a powerhouse of innovation that is driving the global quantum agenda.” 

Sydney’s strategic investments and collaborative efforts in quantum technology have propelled the city to the forefront of this transformative field. With its unique and vibrant ecosystem, a blend of world-leading institutions, globally respected talent and strong government and industry support, Sydney is well-positioned to lead the global quantum revolution for the benefit of all. For more information on Sydney’s science and engineering industries visit besydney.com.au.

Header image: Designers at the UNSW Design Futures Lab. Credit UNSW Sydney 2021