University of Technology Sydney: Making a connection
Digital divide
A digital divide has long existed between Australia’s bustling city centres and its regional and remote areas. That divide has been exacerbated in recent years, with severe bushfires and strong storms highlighting the higher risks involved when communications are cut in times of emergency.
The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the University of Sydney have been appointed to jointly lead the NSW Government’s newly established Connectivity Innovation Network (CIN), developed by the NSW Telco Authority in consultation with the Office of the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer.
UTS Industry Professor and Connectivity Innovation Network Director, Ian Oppermann, says he is delighted that UTS will be leading the NSW Telco Authority’s Communications Innovation Network together with the University of Sydney.
“UTS’s Global Big Data Technology Centre, which led the bid, is a globally recognised leader in wireless communications and sensing research. Together with the University of Sydney, the joint team has the most comprehensive, world-leading expertise across all areas of telecommunications in Australia.
“And given the location of both institutions in Tech Central, the Connectivity Innovation Network will have its roots within one of the NSW Government’s lighthouse precincts, meaning close proximity to existing collaborations between government, industry and research institutions,” said Professor Oppermann.
Given its location in Tech Central, the Connectivity Innovation Network will have its roots within one of the NSW Government’s lighthouse precincts, meaning close proximity to existing collaborations between government, industry and research institutions.
Ian Oppermann
UTS Industry Professor and Director,
Connectivity Innovation Network
Addressing connectivity challenges
The Connectivity Innovation Network will facilitate the potential deployment of validated, research-based solutions into commercialisation. NSW Telco Authority Managing Director Kylie De Courteney said the network would also promote greater collaboration and foster innovation to adapt to connectivity challenges.
“The Connectivity Innovation Network will connect NSW Government agencies to specialists in our universities, research institutes and industry who have the skills and expertise to solve connectivity challenges,”said Ms De Courteney.
“Led by UTS and the University of Sydney, the network will focus on finding innovative research solutions to statewide connectivity challenges such as power resilience, ubiquitous connectivity, sensors, network and cyber automation.
“Delivering improved connectivity has the potential to reduce the digital divide for regional and remote citizens and businesses and provide emergency services organisations with critical communications across the state.”
Leading technology
“UTS has the most advanced facilities for antennas, radio frequency circuits, wireless communications and network testing in Australia,” said UTS Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Innovation and Enterprise), Glenn Wightwick.
“The existing, expansive network of trusted industry relationships built by UTS and the University of Sydney over many years will help accelerate the CIN’s establishment and growth.”