Google announces $1bn Australian investment

Google Australia plans to invest $1bn in digital infrastructure, research and partnerships under its new Digital Future Initiative.

The new initiative will include the establishment of the first Australian Google research hub. Google Research Australia will partner with research institutions in Australia and other Google research hubs internationally to explore ways AI can help address pressing issues.

The initiative will also encompass a collaboration with CSIRO to develop solutions for challenges including natural hazard management, clean energy and protecting the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Another partnership with Macquarie University will involve advanced R&D on quantum computing.

Meanwhile, Google will expand its cloud regions in Australia and pursue investments in more key digital infrastructure. The company recently launched a new cloud region in Melbourne.

Google accompanied the announcement of the new initiative with the opening of its third office in Sydney, a new location in Pyrmont. The office will house 550 new desks and an auditorium and space for national and international industry events. Google has also applied to build a fourth office in Sydney that it aims to open in 2024.

“The Digital Future Initiative is about bringing significant technology resources and capabilities to Australia, investing in the infrastructure that benefits people and businesses, and helping the best talent thrive here,” Google Australia & New Zealand Managing Director Mel Silva said.

“A strong digital future creates opportunities, improves the everyday and enables the extraordinary — and we’d love to help Australia and Australians make the most of the opportunity and build for tomorrow.”

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/peshkov