Australian Critical Technologies Prospectus

A thriving ecosystem of innovative companies delivering critical technologies, shaping future economic prosperity, security and cohesion.

Australia’s edge in critical technologies

With a thriving critical technologies ecosystem, global partners seek Australian critical technology solutions. Australian critical technology companies deliver results for industries, companies and governments around the world.

The ecosystem is backed by government support and by robust research and development.

Australia has:

  • close proximity to Asia Pacific markets, making it a gateway for local and global companies to grow
  • strong trade linkages to the US, the UK and the EU
  • high standards of quality and safety for critical technologies
  • strong regulatory and policy frameworks for its critical technology products.

What's in the Prospectus

The Prospectus showcases:

  • Australia’s thriving critical technology landscape
  • Australian critical technology business success stories
  • why Australia is a safe and reliable export trade partner
  • why Australia is an attractive destination for foreign businesses to invest and partner with
  • Australian Government priorities for critical technologies.

Download the Prospectus

Critical technology priority areas

Priority

Description

Artificial  intelligence (AI) technologiesAustralian companies use AI to transform fundamental technologies used by industry and society. This includes health diagnosis, agriculture and in the defence industry.
Advanced information and communication technologies (ICT)Australian innovation drives new developments in industry and telecommunications. This includes faster internet, improved cyber security, and the development of cloud computing.
Advanced manufacturing and materials technologies
Australia pioneers advanced manufacturing technologies in major industries such as defence, health and clean energy.
Autonomous systems, robotics, positioning and timing, and sensingAustralia’s world leading capabilities in mining, agriculture, defence and space, drive cutting edge autonomous technologies. This includes mining safety and efficiency, on-farm productivity and nanosatellite capability.
BiotechnologyAustralia is home to some of the world’s leading biotechnology companies. Our biotechnology sector is at the forefront of global medical research and innovation. This includes new medicines and treatments, vaccine manufacturing and clinical trials.
Clean energy generation and storage technologiesThe transition to net zero requires Australia’s natural resources, innovation, expertise and investment. Australia’s clean energy technologies deliver large scale battery storage solutions. They also deliver novel decarbonisation innovations, and energy export technology.
Quantum technologiesAustralia’s quantum sector is home to world-leading startups, investment and research. Our quantum technologies transform industries. Quantum technologies are transforming mining, managing complex timetabling and networking across public transport services. Australian companies also provide data security and communication solutions to major global banks.

Backed by Government

Australia has a supportive policy environment. Its key policies and incentives aim to grow the Australian critical technologies ecosystem.

The Critical Technologies Statement outlines the Australian Government’s vision for critical technologies. This involves embracing opportunities and managing risks.

The Australian Government:

  • launched its Future Made in Australia policy in 2024. This encourages and facilitates private sector investment. It also strengthens priority supply chains and develops Australia’s manufacturing sector. It is a vital part of the net zero global economy. State government investments also support this commitment.
  • has committed $15 billion to the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF). The NRF can provide finance for projects that help diversify and transform Australia’s industry and economy. This may be in the form of debt, equity and guarantees to support Australian projects. The NRF is helping to drive high-value industry transformation. Critical technologies will receive $1 billion as part of this commitment.
  • has also committed $40 million to support responsible deployment of AI in the economy. This will help strengthen AI governance and industry capability.

The National Quantum Strategy is the Australian Government’s plan to grow the quantum industry in Australia.

The 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy seeks to improve our cyber security. It also aims to manage cyber risks and support citizens and Australian businesses to manage the cyber environment.