CSIRO, Fujitsu and Monash University have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at expanding Australian researchers’ and students’ access to advanced quantum computing technology, with the collaboration focused on strengthening Australia’s quantum capability and supporting the development of practical quantum applications.
Announced through a Memorandum of Understanding, the collaboration brings together Fujitsu’s quantum technology and infrastructure, Monash University’s research and education expertise, and CSIRO’s applied science capability.
According to CSIRO, the initiative also supports the recently signed Memorandum of Cooperation between Australia and Japan on quantum science, technology and innovation.
Under the agreement, researchers and students from Monash University and CSIRO will gain access to Fujitsu’s quantum systems and simulators in Japan to support research in advanced computing, quantum software and emerging quantum applications.
The organisations will also explore establishing a shared quantum research and education facility at Monash University’s Faculty of Information Technology.
CSIRO Technology Director Dr Katja Digweed said the collaboration could help accelerate the development of advanced quantum computing technologies in Australia.
“This innovative collaboration can help accelerate the development of advanced quantum computing technologies in Australia,” Dr Digweed said.
“Connecting deep scientific capability with the right software and algorithms can bring quantum computing closer to practical use in areas like cybersecurity, health, and climate science. Together we can build the skills, infrastructure and partnerships across research and industry, and between Australia and Japan.”
Fujitsu Oceania chief executive officer Peter Grassi said the partnership would combine the strengths of the three organisations to support research, innovation and workforce development.
“By bringing together Fujitsu’s leading quantum technologies, Monash University’s research excellence and CSIRO’s applied science expertise, we’re creating new opportunities to accelerate innovation, develop future talent and translate quantum breakthroughs into real-world outcomes,” Grassi said.
He said Fujitsu’s longstanding presence in Australia and Japanese heritage positioned the company to strengthen links between the two countries’ quantum ecosystems.
Monash University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise) and Senior Vice-President Professor Robyn Ward said the collaboration would help strengthen Australia’s ability to translate quantum research into practical technologies.
“Quantum technologies have the potential to transform the way we unlock solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues, and building capability in this field will require deep collaboration between universities, industry and government,” Professor Ward said.
“This partnership brings together world-leading research expertise, advanced industry capability and opportunities to train the next generation of quantum researchers and innovators.”
According to CSIRO, the collaboration will focus on developing practical quantum applications, including research into quantum optimisation, machine learning and advanced simulation technologies, while creating new education and industry-linked learning opportunities to help build Australia’s future quantum workforce.
The organisations will also explore a shared research and education facility intended to support collaboration between researchers, students and industry.
