NSW will cement its place as a world leader in bushfire technology commercialisation and position itself for international export of innovative bushfire solutions under a new NSW Government program.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said the Bushfire Commercialisation Fund will support local innovators translate their cutting-edge research into practical solutions that will improve bushfire detection, preparation and response.
“A total of $16 million over three years has been allocated, with the first round of funding offering grants of between $200,000 and $8 million to individuals, companies, research institutions and universities, to help them commercialise their research,” Mr Crouch said.
“The devastating Black Summer of 2019-20 had a lasting impact on community’s right across our State, and this funding will ensure our emergency services have the best technology that will help keep our State safe.”
Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology Alister Henskens said by investing in our home-grown talent and their innovative research, we will help grow the economy, create jobs and develop products that secure a brighter future for NSW.
“Whether it’s artificial intelligence, drones or predictive mapping, we need to commercialise disaster-resilient practical solutions, not just in NSW, but across Australia and around the world,” Mr Henskens said.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said the program will help to develop products that complement the work of emergency service organisations.
“By better understanding fires and enhancing the firefighting capability of frontline personnel, we are able to minimise their impact on the community and save lives,” Ms Cooke said.
NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said the program is the second initiative being rolled out under the Bushfire Response R&D Mission.
“The program has been modelled on the highly successful Medical Devices Fund and Physical Sciences Fund, both of which have helped to scale businesses, attract investment from private capital and build the capability of NSW’s small-to-medium enterprises in key industry sectors,” Professor Durrant-Whyte said.
More information about the program and how to apply can be found online.