For over 30 years, Queenslanders have been pioneers in cutting-edge quantum science, contributing to technologies we use every day, from smartphones to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines. Now, students have the chance to build on this legacy by diving into the second quantum revolution. This new era of advancements in quantum science, computing, sensing and communication is unlocking world-class opportunities to enhance the lives of Queenslanders.
The Queensland Quantum Challenge is an annual, statewide initiative that invites students in Years 9–11 to explore the exciting world of quantum technologies. Participants delve into Queensland's quantum ecosystem; discover emerging science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) pathways; and demonstrate their creativity, problem-solving abilities and science communication abilities by proposing their own quantum solutions.
What you need to know
How to enter
Students can enter the Queensland Quantum Challenge via the official submissions portal. The challenge has closed for this year, however, stay tuned for the announcement of the opening dates in 2027.
Submission requirements
Entries can be submitted in a high-resolution video format, including MP4, AVI, MOV and MPEG.
Students choose how to present their video. Possibilities include a PowerPoint presentation, voiceover on slides, screen recording with narration, a poster explanation, documentary style or a roleplay interview. Please note that they cannot be submitted as a PowerPoint presentation file.
The length of the video should be:
- Years 9 and 10: 3–5 minutes
- Year 11: 5–7 minutes.
Categories
All Queensland students in Years 9–11 are eligible to enter during the opening dates. Students can present their discoveries, demonstrate their learning and propose quantum solutions in 1 of the following categories:
- Year 9 individual
- Year 9 pairs
- Year 10 individual
- Year 10 pairs
- Year 11 individual
- Year 11 pairs
Prizes
All participants receive a certificate signed by the Minister for Education and the Arts, as well as the Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation.
Winners and highly commended entries:
- attend an awards ceremony in Brisbane
- share in $25,000 worth of prizes
- connect with quantum experts and industry leaders to explore future STEM pathways.
Travel and accommodation are provided for eligible winning and highly commended students, and a parent/carer to attend the quantum experience and awards ceremony.
Official rules
The 2026 Queensland Quantum Challenge requires all participants to adhere to the official rules to be in the running to win. This includes terms and conditions about eligibility, registration, entry submission, participation, AI usage, judging, prizes, intellectual property, personal information and privacy, warranties and release, discharge and immunity.
Download the
2026 official rules.
Judging criteria
The judging criteria help students meet all the requirements of the challenge. Judges use these criteria to judge the entries and choose winners and highly commended entries.
The 2026 criteria were split into 5 categories:
- effective communication and presentation
- informed and responsible decision making
- knowledge and application
- inquiry skills
- generating solutions.
Download the full
2026 judging criteria.
Curriculum alignment
Curriculum links are provided to help teachers integrate the Queensland Quantum Challenge into the classroom. These suggestions support lesson planning and assessment, and inspire students to explore the exciting possibilities of quantum technologies.
In Prep to Year 10, schools implement the Australian Curriculum, which includes a range of learning areas and subjects that support the introduction of quantum technologies. In Years 11 and 12, schools follow syllabuses developed or approved by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA), offering senior subjects and pathways where students can extend and apply these concepts in more specialised contexts.
For teachers, the Queensland Quantum Challenge could be adapted as part of teaching and learning in a range of learning areas/subjects provided below, aligning to domains where applications of quantum and advanced technologies are being harnessed to solve problems. Please note that these links will be reviewed each year of the challenge.
Years 9 and 10:
Year 11:
If you have any questions, please email
stem@qed.qld.gov.au.