Project Description
The Queensland Quantum Decarbonisation Alliance (QDA) will bring
together twenty-seven partners across academia and industry to create a world-leading quantum decarbonisation effort in Queensland. The QDA will establish seven new large-scale research teams in our State, in close partnership with PsiQuantum as they build their first utility-scale quantum computer here. It will position Queensland at the forefront of quantum algorithm development in Australia and cement our existing
lead in quantum sensing. It will train a pipeline of cross-disciplinary talent in our universities and industry, including undergraduate and Masters coursework, PhD programs, and quantum up-skilling for industry.
Project Personnel and Beneficiaries
Queensland is an economic powerhouse in carbon-intensive industries. Agriculture, resources and energy account for >90% of our exports. These industries fuel our economy and the well-being of our people.
However, in addition to environmental imperatives, their high carbon intensity exposes the State to a multitude of trade, regulatory and compliance risks as global decarbonisation efforts accelerate. While our leading industries are currently carbon intensive, Queensland is also the sunshine State, endowed with abundant clean energy resources, and is a major exporter of minerals needed to for clean technologies. Demand for
these resources will grow exponentially as the transition to net zero accelerates worldwide. Quantum technologies can address
decarbonisation challenges and secure economic development opportunities here.
Outcomes to Date
–
Project Significance
The QDA will drive quantum technologies into Queensland’s primary industries, enhancing Queensland’s international reputation in technology and innovation, and as a leading jurisdiction tackling climate change. Most importantly, it will drive down emissions, addressing one of our most pressing global challenges. Quantum technologies promise to significantly accelerate our path to net zero, abating as much as 7 gigatons of greenhouse emissions annually.