The Federal Government has updated its List of Critical Technologies in the National Interest, with clean energy generation and storage technologies prioritised as key to supporting the country’s net zero future.
The updated list focuses on key enabling technology fields that will have a high impact on national interest, including by providing opportunities to grow the economy, provide well-paying jobs and improve the lives of Australians.
The updated List of Critical Technologies has seven key technology fields:
- Clean energy generation and storage technologies
- Advanced manufacturing and materials technologies
- Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies
- Advanced information and communication technologies
- Quantum technologies
- Autonomous systems, robotics, positioning, timing and sensing
- Biotechnologies
The accompanying Critical Technologies Statement outlines the Federal Government’s vision for maximising the opportunities and managing the risks posed by these technologies.
This updated list complements the Federal Government’s first National Quantum Strategy which was released early May 2023.
To further grow this sector, the Federal Government’s National Reconstruction Fund is targeting $1 billion of investment in critical technologies.
Federal Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic, said the list includes a new priority on clean energy generation and storage technologies. Breakthroughs in this area will be crucial in Australia’s efforts to improve energy security and achieve net zero emissions.
“This List of Critical Technologies builds on the Federal Government’s commitment to expand the number of next generation businesses working at the forefront of our changing economy,” Mr Husic said.
“The Federal 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.”
