Federal funding to help emerging aviation tech take off

Twelve new projects are set to share in nearly $13.5 million under Round 2 of the Emerging Aviation Technology Partnerships (EATP) program — a government initiative to help develop and deploy emerging aircraft technologies that will support Australian industries in the aviation sector.

Drones and advanced air mobility are emerging technologies that have widespread potential applications; the EATP program partners with industry to encourage innovation and new use cases. It supports a range of projects across Australia, with focus areas including the development of digital farming, boosting regional connectivity and supply chains, and improving outcomes for regional and remote First Nations communities.

The 12 projects delivered under Round 1 of the EATP program include air ambulance trials in regional Australia and developing a quieter, more efficient propeller design for aircraft. The second round of 12 projects includes investigating drones for use in humanitarian air and disaster recovery operations, delivering cargo services across regional and remote Australia, and transporting health products and services to First Nations communities across the Torres Strait.

The funding will also invest in uncrewed aircraft, including trialling large remotely piloted aircraft as an automated, zero-emissions solution for large-scale farm spraying in regional and remote areas. A number of projects will explore renewable or low-emission energy sources for aviation technologies, including developing an electric motor and high-powered electric aircraft charger.

“We’re already honouring our commitment to build a Future Made in Australia by partnering with industry through this program to develop innovative aviation technologies that can make a real difference for communities, particularly those in regional, rural and remote Australia,” said Assistant Minister for Regional Development & Education Anthony Chisholm.

“This includes drones and remotely piloted aircraft that will ensure remote communities get access to the health services they need and the cargo makes its way onto the shelves at the local grocer.

“Some of these latest projects will explore how emerging aviation can support farmers and unlock manufacturing opportunities in Australia, as well as how we can make this technology lower cost and more sustainable — to make them more widely accessible for communities.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the development of these projects get underway and the impact they will have in our regional, rural and remote communities, because when we invest in local innovation and manufacturing, it creates more opportunity for our regions now and into the future.”

For more information on the program, including all projects funded under Round 1 and Round 2, visit https://www.drones.gov.au/policies-and-programs/emerging-aviation-technology-partnerships-program.

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