Proof of Concept facility will enhance academic and industry partnership

Deakin University's new Proof of Concept facility, opened in Geelong today by the Minister for Regional and Rural Development, Jacinta Allan, provides local industry with state-of-the-art research facilities and will foster further collaboration between the University and local industry.

Part of a $13 million expansion of the Geelong Technology Precinct and supported by an investment of $6 million under the Victorian Government's Regional Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), the 3500m2 Proof of Concept facility represents a significant increase in research infrastructure and capability at Deakin University's Geelong Campus at Waurn Ponds.

The Proof of Concept facility provides space for pre-commercial work to occur and for local industry to collaborate with Deakin on the testing of prototypes and the rapid commercialisation of projects.

The facility provides critical infrastructure for the future stages of development of the GTP and is the platform for growth of Deakin's 'smart design', nano-manufacturing, carbon fibre, composites and high-performance light metal capabilities.

It is also the site for research activity of national importance in sectors including defence, automotive and aerospace.

Already housed within the Proof of Concept facility are a number of Deakin's industry partners, including The Victorian Centre for Advanced Materials Manufacturing, The Co-operative Research Centre for Cast Metals Manufacturing, CFusion, HARD Technologies, Quickstep and VR TEK Global.

Deakin University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jane den Hollander said that the new facility was an example of the University's progressive approach to industry collaboration.

"Deakin is a relatively young university but this facility is testament to our commitment to excellence in research both in Victoria and throughout Australia," she said.

"There is great potential in a facility like this for Geelong to benefit from successful partnerships between Deakin and industry participants."