Australia has built a strong foundation in quantum research, but as we move into the second quantum revolution, it is becoming a critical capability for future competitiveness.
This progress is reflected in the shift to ultra-precise sensing, secure communications and new computing approaches - solving real industry problems and lifting the nation's performance.
The global quantum market could be worth up to US$97 billion by 2035, growing the US$198 billion by 2040, according to the McKinsey Quantum Technology Monitor. In Australia, the CSIRO estimates the industry will be worth AUD$2.2 billion, with 8,700 jobs by 2030, and this is expected to rise to around AUD$6 billion and 19,400 jobs by 2045.
We have an extraordinary opportunity to harness this momentum and make South Australia the national hub for industrial quantum sensing.
We are home to more than 20 companies and world class research assets with strong capabilities in photonics, lasers, quantum sensing, precision navigation and timing.
These organisations, including companies, researchers, startups, education and government are clustered within our major technology precincts, accelerating translation and commercialisation.
At Lot Fourteen, quantum timing company QuantX Labs has deployed its Cryoclock into the AUD$1.2 billion JORN upgrade and is partnering with the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing to miniaturise atomic clocks for field use.
Fleet Space has incorporated quantum magnetometers, gravimeters and particle-based sensing to make subsurface mapping faster, more accurate and less invasive.
At Tonsley Innovation District, x-ray technology company Micro-X has designed quantum-enabled security and baggage inspection that will enable passengers to move through security checkpoints faster while increasing their safety.
South Australia is also punching above our weight in translating quantum capability into competitive national programs and industry-framed use cases.
These achievements are not by chance, but are a result of our state's leadership in building a high-tech ecosystem, and our intentional support for emerging industries such as quantum technologies.
The Quantum Australia Conference was attended by professionals from around Australia and across the world - including a delegation from Finland - who had the opportunity to take part in an exclusive, curated program facilitated by the Department of State Development to connect them with South Australia's leading industry, research and government stakeholders.
Through high-level workshops, facility tours and focused roundtable discussions, delegates gained behind-the-scenes access to the organisations driving innovation across defence, energy, health and finance, giving them the chance to explore opportunities for collaboration, investment and partnership.
