The Australian Government has updated the List of Critical Technologies that will help secure Australia’s future.

Critical technologies underpin many aspects of our daily lives. 

The updated list focuses on key enabling technology fields that will have a high impact on our national interest, including by providing opportunities to grow our economy, provide well-paying jobs and improve the lives of Australians.

The updated List of Critical Technologies has seven key technology fields: 

• Advanced manufacturing and materials technologies 
• Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies
• Advanced information and communication technologies
• Quantum technologies
• Autonomous systems, robotics, positioning, timing and sensing
• Biotechnologies
• Clean energy generation and storage technologies.

The accompanying Critical Technologies Statement outlines the Government’s vision for maximising the opportunities and managing the risks posed by these technologies. 

Some clusters of critical technologies - artificial intelligence and robotics - are driving higher productivity across the nation’s businesses and well-paid jobs.

This updated list complements the Government’s first National Quantum Strategy which was released earlier this month. 

To further grow this sector, the Albanese Government’s National Reconstruction Fund is targeting $1 billion of investment in critical technologies.

Quotes attributable to Ed Husic, Minister for Industry and Science:

“Quantum technologies, for example, are identified as a priority field within the List of Critical Technologies, and are poised to accelerate developments in sensing, communications and computing for generations to come. 

“This List of Critical Technologies builds on the Government’s commitment to expand the number of next generation businesses working at the forefront of our changing economy.”

“Advanced analytics can spot genetic patterns that humans can’t, leading to breakthroughs in diagnosing and treating rare diseases. 

“The list includes a new priority on clean energy generation and storage technologies. Breakthroughs in this area will be crucial in our efforts to improve energy security and achieve net zero emissions.

“The Government is also targeting $1 billion of investment in critical technologies through the National Reconstruction Fund, which will further bolster Australia’s industry and economy.”