The Rockliff Liberal Government is an active supporter of the tech industry and it is fantastic to see the ongoing growth of the sector in Tasmania.
Testament to this, a new tech lab at Launceston's Henty House will drive innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in Tasmania by helping harness the possibilities of the Internet of Things (IoT).
Delivered by Enterprize and co-funded by the Rockliff Liberal Government and Telstra, the lab will be a focal point for startups, existing businesses, students and the broader community, providing them with access to the latest in IoT technology and infrastructure.
Deputy Premier, Michael Ferguson, said IoT was more than just automatic fridges and smart lights.
"The way IoT connects devices all around us presents significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs who are willing to chase their dreams and smart ideas," Mr Ferguson said.
"This new lab will help bring those ideas to life with specialist equipment and expertise on hand.
"As the first of its kind open in the State, the lab provides an important platform for local entrepreneurs to experiment, develop, and refine new devices and business models, ultimately contributing to the growth of the Tasmanian economy," he said.
The lab fit-out includes a fully equipped electronics workbench for developing electronic hardware as well as a state-of-the-art pick and place machine for low-volume prototype manufacturing.
The lab also offers prototyping facilities for enclosures and mounting solutions, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as vacuum forming, 3D scanning, and printing.
Mr Ferguson said the investment in local talent and innovation provided an opportunity to create higher-value local jobs which would encourage people to stay in, or relocate to, Tasmania to start businesses.
"This is just another example of how Launceston is embracing a culture of innovation and fostering technological advancement," he said.
Minister for Science and Technology, Madeleine Ogilvie, said Tasmania's ICT sector is booming and sits at the heart of our economy, from mining and manufacturing to service delivery.
"The opening of the new lab is just another example of the Rockliff Liberal Government delivering incredible work and training opportunities in the tech sector," Minister Ogilvie said.
"I'm excited for the opportunities the lab presents for Tasmanian businesses to revolutionise established practices and to create new ways of working and living."
The establishment of the IoT lab is part of the almost $10.9 million Greater Launceston Transformation Project, developed by the Office of the Coordinator-General and delivered in partnership with the City of Launceston, West Tamar Council, Meander Valley Council, George Town Council, the University of Tasmania, Telstra and the Australian and Tasmanian Governments.
