Alicia Payne MP

Member for Canberra

MEDIA RELEASE

FUNDING TO FAST-TRACK AUSSIE QUANTUM INNOVATIONS

15 July 2025

The Albanese Government is backing tech projects in Canberra to improve the diagnoses of medical conditions prevalent in First Nations communities.

Angel Eyecare is one of 14 projects to share in $5.74 million in grants under the latest round of the Critical Technologies Challenge Program (CTCP).

Angel Eyecare’s Project Ginan has been granted $499,483 to bring robust, mobile Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) eye diagnosis to remote Australian communities and First Nations people. Quantum technology and photonic chips enable the miniaturisation of existing bulky, expensive and fragile OCT devices required to image internal eye structures. A prototype quantum-enabled OCT will be refined through First Nations focus groups before undergoing environmental testing and ruggedisation for travel to and operation in remote First Nation communities. This co-designed prototype, offering portability and robustness, will improve access to health technology to enable timely and often sight-saving treatment for First Nations peoples in remote locations.

The $35.9 million Critical Technologies Challenge Program is a commitment of the National Quantum Strategy released in 2023.

It’s designed to drive greater awareness and uptake of quantum technologies in Australia by creating stronger ties between quantum researchers, quantum businesses and technology users across the economy. 

Round 2 of the CTCP supports projects that capture the power and potential of quantum technologies to address nationally significant challenges, such as those affecting our energy networks, logistic capabilities, biosecurity and improved health outcomes for First Nations peoples. 

For more information visit: www.industry.gov.au/science-technology-and-innovation/industry-innovation/critical-technologies-challenge-program

Quotes attributable to Alicia Payne MP:

“By backing Project Ginan, the Albanese Government is supporting Australian innovation and lifting our local economy, helping more great ideas grow into great products and businesses here at home.

“It’s fantastic to see tech projects in Canberra being used to help address health inequities for First Nations communities on a national scale. I look forward to seeing positive outcomes following this financial boost.”