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Curtin University has been appointed as the operator of Western Australia’s new GreenTech Hub, a multi-million dollar initiative aimed at accelerating the development of green technologies and services throughout the state. This hub is a pivotal element of the Government’s AU$40 million collaboration joint venture, a partnership intended to fund green technology initiatives and reduce carbon emissions.
The region’s Innovation and the Digital Economy and Science Minister announced that AU $4 million will be allocated over four years to support innovative projects designed to aid in the decarbonisation of the economy. Minister Dawson emphasised the Government’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions in Western Australia by 2050, highlighting Curtin University’s significant role in delivering solutions for a clean energy future. He noted that the establishment of the GreenTech Hub would further advance critical technologies and new industries, fostering collaboration among researchers, industry, and government to tackle both state and global sustainability challenges.
Curtin University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor expressed her enthusiasm for Curtin’s selection to help the State Government position Western Australia as a leader in the adoption and development of technologies essential for a net-zero economy. She described the GreenTech Hub as a vibrant centre for innovators and entrepreneurs committed to creating a greener future.
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor also underscored the importance of building a strong consortium of partners, acknowledging that collaboration with industry leaders is vital for achieving the hub’s goals. Curtin plans to partner with organisations from across the innovation ecosystem and from each stage of the value chain related to the development, delivery, and implementation of green technologies.
The initial consortium formed by Curtin University consists of 25 organisations, including major energy and resources companies, emerging businesses, startups, venture capital investors, and research and training institutions. In collaboration with the State Government, the consortium also includes the Noongar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which advocates for First Nations businesses.
The GreenTech Hub will be modelled after existing innovation hubs co-founded by the WA Government, with an official opening scheduled for later in the year. This initiative is designed to be a dynamic centre where collaborative efforts between diverse stakeholders can address the pressing challenges of decarbonisation and sustainability. By fostering such collaborations, the hub aims to spur the development and deployment of green technologies that are crucial for transitioning to a net-zero economy.
The focus on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the GreenTech Hub aligns with the broader objectives of the Government’s green technology strategy. By leveraging the expertise and resources of Curtin University and its partners, the hub aims to drive significant advancements in green technology that can be scaled and implemented across various sectors. This initiative reflects a strategic approach to environmental sustainability, aiming to position Western Australia at the forefront of green technology innovation.
The collaboration with the joint venture highlights the role of major industry players in supporting the state’s decarbonisation goals. This partnership underscores the importance of integrating industry expertise and resources with academic and governmental efforts to achieve substantial progress in reducing carbon emissions.
The establishment of the GreenTech Hub represents a significant step forward in Western Australia’s efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development. By creating a dedicated space for the development and implementation of green technologies, Curtin University and its partners are poised to make a substantial impact on the state’s ability to achieve its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. This initiative not only supports local innovation and industry but also contributes to global efforts to address environmental challenges.