ICN gateway to build industry links

Deakin University has become a premium partner of the Industry Capability Network (ICN) - an independent organisation supported by Australian, New Zealand, state and territory governments.

Established 30 years ago, the network has helped suppliers establish over $30 billion worth of contracts in all industry sectors.

The network has more than 30 offices in Australia and New Zealand and employs around 100 technical consultants in all major sectors. Its on-line portal, the ICN Gateway, connects suppliers, project managers and research organisations, listing billions of dollars’ worth of projects in Australia, New Zealand and beyond.

The partnership of Deakin with ICN Gateway is designed to deliver solutions to business and government through: contract research, the licensing of intellectual property, consulting services and academic expertise.

According to Deakin Research Commercial’s Mr Andrew Rau, the network plays a major role in connecting industries and, increasingly, research organisations, as Australia faces a competitive global market.

“As an example of one local project, the network facilitated the $40 million worth of contracts relating to the construction of the Epworth Hospital at Waurn Ponds,” Mr Rau said.

“Deakin’s involvement with the ICN is already opening up opportunities around Geelong and Ballarat and will see us hosting more industry events on campus to build face-to-face connections. At a half-day workshop that we recently organised for 14 members of the ICN, Regional Development Victoria and the Geelong Manufacturing Council, the visitors were extremely impressed with Deakin’s facilities and expertise.”

Initially, Deakin’s presence on the ICN Gateway will focus on Engineering and Materials Science areas, such as carbon fibre, electromaterials, metals/ foundry and textiles, as well as IT and Intelligent Systems research.

These research areas align with the Federal Government’s Industry Growth Centres initiative, which has earmarked Geelong to become one of five Australian Advanced Manufacturing growth hubs.

The Growth Centre initiative aims to boost Australia’s productivity and competitiveness by placing “science at the centre of industry policy and increasing collaboration between industry, business and research.”

Deakin staff interested in seeking industry partners should contact Andrew Rau, Senior Industry Engagement and Commercialisation Manager, or David Woollard, Senior Business/Market Analyst, Deakin Research Commercial.