PIA participated in Quantum Australia 2026, engaging with leaders from industry, government, and research organisations. The conference highlighted the growing intersection between quantum technologies and photonics, and provided opportunities to showcase South Australia's capabilities and strengthen national partnerships.

A major workforce development milestone was achieved with the first trial delivery of the new Photonics Technician training program.

Developed with strong industry input, the course represents a significant step toward building the skilled workforce required to support the growth of Australia's photonics and advanced manufacturing sectors.

PIA facilitated engagement between Joe Szakacs, researchers, and industry through visits to the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing and companies in the SA photonics ecosystem. Discussions focused on the importance of photonics to South Australia's future economy, spanning research, manufacturing, health, defence, and exports.

PIA participated in the Export Diversification and Resilience Forum at Stone & Chalk Adelaide. The event brought together industry leaders, manufacturers, exporters, and government representatives to discuss strategies for strengthening export markets and improving resilience against global trade disruptions. The forum included an address by Joe Szakacs outlining new government support measures for South Australian exporters.

PIA met with Joe Szakacs and other government representatives to discuss the rapid growth of South Australia’s photonics sector and opportunities to strengthen its national and international position.

Key topics included:

• The establishment of Photonics Industries Australia as the state’s dedicated industry body supporting ecosystem growth, collaboration, and investment
• Development of the Photonics Technician Short Course, partially supported by Skills SA, with planned launch in February 2026 to address critical workforce gaps
• Strategies to promote industry–research collaboration across manufacturing, defence, health, and advanced technology sectors
• Strengthening engagement between government, industry, and research institutions including the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing
• Upcoming engagement opportunities
• Discussion of the upcoming Quantum Australia Conference, expected to bring over 900 international delegates to Adelaide

PIA hosted representatives from PsiQuantum to connect with South Australia's quantum and photonics ecosystem. The session brought together researchers, industry representatives, and government stakeholders to discuss opportunities for collaboration.

PIA hosted an industry networking event at QuantX Labs. Participants gained insight into the company's work in quantum-enabled technologies, precision timing, and advanced sensing systems, while also connecting with colleagues from across Australia's photonics and quantum ecosystems. The event highlighted the growing links between photonics, quantum technologies, defence, and space applications.

PIA hosted a networking event at Ellex Medical Lasers, bringing together members of South Australia's photonics community to explore the company's advanced laser technologies and manufacturing capabilities.

The event provided valuable opportunities for industry, researchers, and stakeholders to connect, share insights, and strengthen relationships across the sector.

On December 5th, Photonics Industries Australia (PIA) hosted its first networking event at Norseld’s impressive facility in Adelaide — and what a fantastic kick-off it was! A huge thank you to Peter Schute for helping make this event such a success.

Despite coinciding with the ANZCOP conference, we welcomed 17 participants, including industry leaders, researchers, and key stakeholders, all eager to strengthen and advance Australia’s photonics sector. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive — attendees appreciated the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and explore Norseld’s cutting-edge medical laser and precision optical manufacturing capabilities.

This event marks the beginning of something big. As a national body, PIA builds on a decade of South Australia's photonics initiatives, uniting innovators to foster education, investment, and growth. And this is just the start — we expect even greater attendance and engagement at our next event!

Thank you to everyone who joined us. Let’s keep the momentum going as we shape the future of Australia’s photonics industry.

Stay tuned for more events and opportunities — we can’t wait to see you next time!

On Friday, 29th November 2024, Photonics Insdustries Australia in partnership with IPAS hosted the Collaboration in Focus: Networking with ELI Beamlines event at the University of Adelaide. Over 60 attendees from South Australia’s photonics and laser industries participated in the event, which featured talks from international and local experts.

Roman Hevzda, Director of ELI Beamlines, the world’s largest high-power laser facility, provided an overview of the ELI Project, outlining potential collaboration opportunities in areas such as laser-driven fusion, advanced manufacturing, joint education initiatives, staff exchanges, and support for young researchers.

Professor Miftar Ganija, founder of the DualTech-USPL Research Group, spoke about the development of an ultrafast science ecosystem in Australia, emphasizing its potential impact across clean energy, defence, health, and industry. Dr Sergey Pikuz also shared insights into his work, contributing further to the discussions. Warren McKenzie facilitated the event as MC.

Attendees included representatives from the University of Adelaide, DualTech USPL, IPAS, the local photonics industries, and HB11 Energy. One participant noted, “Events like these underscore the importance of fostering connections and sharing knowledge to drive innovation and progress. I look forward to seeing how these collaborations evolve and lead to advancements in the field.”

The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for participants to connect and explore potential partnerships. We thanks all speakers and attendees for contributing to a productive discussion.