The Queensland government will invest an extra $15 million over seven years to establish a Defence Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Trusted Autonomous Systems.
The funds, contained in the Palaszczuk government’s 2019 state budget, will see the creation of a national hub for high-tech drone design and manufacturing in Queensland, said state innovation minister Kate Jones.
“Through our partnership with Boeing and the Federal Government, we’ll boast one of the world’s most cutting edge design and research facilities for drones,” Jones said.
“This approach will leverage millions of dollars in investment from industry and research partners and will create highly-skilled jobs in Queensland.”
Jones said the funding boost would build on the Government’s now $755 million Advance Queensland initiative to create more jobs and opportunities for Queenslanders.
She said the Advance Queensland initiative was clearly working with beneficiaries reporting an additional $620 million had been leveraged from the private sector.
The budget will also deliver an additional $24 million for training and skilling, bringing the Training and Skills budget to $978 million.
State training and skills development minister Shannon Fentiman said that over $105 million in would be provided in upgrades to ensure TAFE facilities across the state can offer high quality training spaces.
“Key projects include upgrades at TAFE campuses on the Gold Coast, Alexandra Hills and Mt Gravatt, while continuing works at Pimlico in Townsville and Toowoomba– these are just some examples of our commitment to strengthening the state’s TAFE network,” said Fentiman.
“Investing in fit-for-purpose training infrastructure is essential to ensure Queenslanders can access the skills they need to get a job and pursue an exciting career in our state’s growing industries.”
“These projects will also support existing apprentices, trainees and workers in the construction sector and associated businesses.”