Supercharging local industry with Digital Innovation Hub launch
Image Source: La Trobe University, Digital Innovation Hub
Optus, Cisco and La Trobe University have unveiled the brand new Digital Innovation Hub at a special event at the La Trobe University Bundoora campus. This state-of-the-art hub leverages Optus' 5G technology and is Australia's exclusive host of CISCO Webex Hologram technology.
The Digital Innovation Hub is a cutting-edge facility designed to supercharge local industry and skills and foster collaboration among students, researchers and businesses. The Victorian Minister formally opened the space for Skills and TAFE, Gayle Tierney, in front of over 100 guests. Read the full media release here.
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Powered by Optus' 5G, the Digital Innovation Hub offers a range of immersive technological showcases, including:
- Optus 5G Co-design Showcase: Experimentation and prototyping in areas including the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).
- Webex Hologram: A groundbreaking technology that leverages 5G to create realistic 3D holograms of people and content using AR headsets for a truly immersive experience that goes far beyond conventional video conferencing.
- Victorian Virtual Emergency Department: An AR solution that allows a nurse at a residential aged care facility and the doctor in the VVED to "see" what the other is seeing using AR technology.
- Augmented Reality experiences: A range of smart glasses are being trialled for various use cases in healthcare, education and agriculture.
- Interactive touch wall: a cutting-edge presentation where visitors can explore various research projects through interactive multimedia displays.
Central to the Hub is the Makerspace, equipped with state-of-the-art tools such as circuit board printers, laser cutters, 3D printers, and manufacturing equipment. This space empowers researchers to develop customised IoT sensors, fostering innovation in critical industries like healthcare and agriculture.
Image Source: La Trobe University, Digital Innovation Hub
This innovation precinct offers unique technological capabilities to help shape the future of Australia's digital landscape. Optus is delighted to be a cornerstone partner in the development, and we look forward to welcoming customers, new and old, researchers, students, start-ups, subject matter experts and local industry to the space.
Kavin Arnasalon, Head of Government, Enterprise and Business at Optus said, "Artificial Intelligence, edge computing and ultra-reliable low latency technology made possible by 5G are all expected to have a major impact across businesses here in Australia. Through our strategic partnership with La Trobe University and Cisco, students, researchers and the next generation of business leaders will be able to have hands on experience in integrating technology into the workplace to drive business transformation."
Image Source L-R: Jason Bamert, Kavin Arnasalon and Justin Stolarski
La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor and President, John Dewar AO, expressed his enthusiasm, emphasising the hub's role as a catalyst for innovation.
"The Digital Innovation Hub is an exciting precinct that will lead to new research and commercial developments that could transform sectors like healthcare, education, and telecommunications. The Hub offers real-time opportunities for our students, academics, and businesses to collaborate and innovate," said Professor Dewar.
The Digital Innovation Hub builds on an already longstanding relationship between Optus and La Trobe University. In 2022, the two announced a partnership to help it evolve into a University of the Future and in September 2023, they teamed up again to provide a lift to Victoria's health and technology sector with the appointment of award-winning researcher Professor Nilmini Wickramasinghe as the inaugural Optus Chair of Digital Health at La Trobe University.
Further information
Book a session for you and your team at the Digital Innovation Hub and explore our 5G Lab to test your ideas, accelerate your roadmap and confidently plan your next steps.
If you would like further information, please get in touch with your Optus Enterprise Account Manager or email our University Partnership team via Jessica.tabone@optus.com.au so we can arrange a discussion with our team.
Kavin Arnasalon Head of Government Optus Enterprise and Business
Kavin is the Head of Government for Optus Enterprise and Business. He is responsible for providing a range of services to our Government customers at Federal and State Levels. Armed with a team that provides expert advice, delivering on all aspects of the future of digital government and building solutions designed to deliver better citizen experiences. Kavin’s focus is on driving value for money engagements at all levels of government for Optus to be seen as the most trusted enterprise brand with lasting government relationships.
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