Are you ready to take on the Queensland Quantum Challenge? This is your chance to explore the world of quantum and advanced technologies—fields that are transforming industries and shaping the future. Your task is to explore these possibilities and imagine how they could make a difference right here in Queensland.
The steps below will guide you through the process of discovering emerging quantum technologies, investigating real-world applications and proposing a quantum idea that addresses local challenges and opportunities. Along the way, you'll consider ethical, environmental and economic impacts, and think about the career pathways these technologies could unlock for Queenslanders.
Follow each step carefully to create a submission that is innovative, informed and impactful. Whether you're passionate about science, technology or problem-solving, this is your chance to showcase your creativity and vision for the future.
Step 1—explore quantum and advanced technologies
Quantum and advanced technologies offer exciting opportunities for Queenslanders.
Start by exploring emerging quantum technologies and how they are solving challenges in areas like healthcare, decarbonisation, SportTech, national security, critical minerals, agriculture, energy, transport and environmental monitoring.
| Quantum optimisation | Uses quantum computers to solve optimisation problems by evaluating many possibilities at once, improving decision making and planning | Logistics
Energy
Traffic routing
Bus scheduling
Workforce planning |
| Quantum simulation | Uses quantum computers to model molecules and materials at the atomic level | Pharmaceuticals
Carbon capture
Catalysts
Battery materials
Renewable energy |
Quantum artificial intelligence (AI)
| Combines quantum computing and AI to recognise complex patterns and predict outcomes | Accelerate data-driven science
Health diagnostics
Climate modelling
Financial modelling
Risk analysis |
| Quantum sensing | Measures time, gravity or magnetic fields with extreme precision using quantum effects | Navigation without GPS
Medical imaging
Mineral discovery
Reef monitoring
Sensing gravitational or magnetic anomalies |
| Quantum communication and security | Transmits information using quantum states that can’t be intercepted without detection | Unbreakable encryption
Secure data sharing in healthcare
Preventing cyber attacks
Secure banking
National security |
Step 2—choose your quantum technology
After exploring emerging quantum technologies, select 1 that most interests you and briefly explain how it works. Keep it simple—no complex equations necessary! You can use analogies or visuals to make it clear. You will include this explanation in your video.
Step 3—spot it in action
Identify at least 1 real-world or emerging application of your chosen technology. For example, the
Critical Technologies Challenge Program provides real-world examples about how different industries in Australia are solving problems using quantum technologies in energy, medicine, communication and more.
Additionally, you could explore real-world quantum solutions by conducting your own research. Use libraries or online databases to access publications and academic journals, visit research institution websites, connect with local startups and companies or attend events and watch symposiums recordings.
Below are some real-world examples in each category.
| Quantum optimisation |
Flinders University and La Trobe University | Optimising remote community energy systems for reliable, low-cost renewable power. Reducing energy consumption in data centres and improve sustainability |
| Quantum simulation |
University of Sydney
Daimler and IBM | Simulating molecules for improved skin cancer research and sunscreen design. Simulating lithium-sulfur battery chemistry to design next-generation batteries for electric vehicles |
| Quantum AI |
Volkswagen
VivaTech | Enhancing traffic flow and supply chain logistics, reducing congestion and emissions. Improve climate change solutions by combining quantum computing’s ability to process massive, complex datasets with AI's predictive power |
| Quantum sensing |
Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology
Iugotec Pty Ltd | Affordable, non-invasive brain monitoring to tackle neurological disorders. Species-specific pest detection at scale to protect agriculture. |
| Quantum communication and security—Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) |
Deakin University
Micius satellite | Protecting smart microgrids from cyberattacks and enhance energy network security. Space-based QKD for secure intercontinental communication.
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Step 4—bring it home to Queensland
Now you have chosen a quantum technology and discovered its real-world applications, consider how it could be applied in Queensland. Reflect on local challenges, gaps and opportunities.
For example:
- Could a healthcare application be adapted for use in another different domain?
- If it is being used at a small scale, could it be expanded for a larger scale in the future?
- As the technology evolves, could it address more significant problems in the future?
Also, think about the career pathways and opportunities that could emerge if your quantum solution was implemented locally.
Step 5—show the impact
Consider the broader benefits your solution could bring to Queensland, including its ethical, environmental, economic and social implications. Reflect on how it could create wider opportunities and career pathways.
Step 6—consider judging criteria
Before finalising your proposal, consider the judging criteria. Judges will assess based on responsible thinking, knowledge, inquiry skills and impact. Use these reflection questions to refine your submission:
- How have you demonstrated your knowledge of Queensland's opportunities and challenges, quantum and advanced technologies, and related career pathways?
- What process did you follow to investigate and identify solutions? Did you ask thoughtful questions, research diverse sources and organise your findings effectively (e.g. graphs, models etc.)? How will you showcase this?
- Is your solution innovative, logical and well-considered? Have you evaluated its benefits? What potential criticisms could arise and how would you address them?
- Is your idea informed and ethical? Does it reflect responsible decision making and consider environmental, social and economic impacts?
Step 7—produce a video for submission
It's time to bring your ideas to life in your video!
Judges will assess your entry based on the criteria, so ensure your video clearly addresses each one. Highlight everything you want the judges to notice.
Communicate with clarity and creativity, while using persuasive language and credible references to strengthen your presentation. Consider how to captivate and maintain your audience's attention through visual engagement.
Once your video is ready, submit via the official submissions portal between 2 March and 1 May.
We look forward to receiving your 2026 Queensland Quantum Challenge entry!