Plans for Australia’s biggest technology precinct

Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan has unveiled the blueprint for Australia’s biggest technology precinct and the only one dedicated to information and communications technology.

Logan said the Bentley Technology Precinct would establish Western Australia as a dynamic technology-driven destination and secure its international standing as an innovation leader.

“The Bentley Technology Precinct will become a destination where business meets research and research has access to business; where knowledge is shared among companies and partnerships are established,” Logan said.

“The precinct will become a lifestyle, integrating people, business, technology and education within an energetic and vibrant environment.

“Cafes, bars and restaurants will become boardrooms and central, shared facilities will provide mentoring and support for companies at all stages of commercialisation. Sustainable transport options will be explored and pathways expanded for a pedestrian friendly location.

“The precinct will be an environment where established businesses can grow and new businesses have opportunities and support to develop, further strengthening the future growth of the state’s economy.”

The existing 42 ha Bentley Technology Park was already one of the biggest in Australia, but will increase seven-fold to create the 314 ha technology precinct.

The precinct will be home to telecommunications, information services and computer gaming companies, as well as companies that service this sector including specialised lawyers, patent specialists and financial houses.

Logan said the state government had committed $8.55 million for the initial infrastructure requirements for the long-term project.

He said the precinct would feature one of the fastest transmission networks in Australia, allowing business to interact with others, faster and cheaper.

A $2.2 million investment would see the construction of a high-speed fibre network within the existing park that would be linked to the CBD and provide initial connection speeds of one gigabit per second.

It will eventually be expanded to incorporate the whole precinct, with upgrades in connection speeds up to 10 gigabits per second.

The draft structure plan for the precinct was developed in consultation with the neighbouring Curtin University of Technology, City of South Perth, Town of Victoria Park, government departments, industry, academia, researchers and the community.

The community and other stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on the Bentley Technology Precinct Draft Structure Plan. A blog site has been created to promote discussion and participation. Comments can be made at www.communityofminds.com.au.