The Andrews Labor Government is investing $5 million in a new world-leading automotive mobility simulator, bringing more advanced technology to Victoria.
Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney today unveiled the new Genesis Simulator at Deakin University's Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI). This $9 million simulator is one of the most advanced mobility simulators in Australia and the only one of its kind in a university in the world.
The simulator will fast-track transport prototyping and improve driver safety and training by supporting complex research into mobility and industry needs, automotive testing and design.
The five-metre tall 360-degree screen creates an immersive and realistic experience for researchers to assess how different environmental and vehicular conditions affect specific driving conditions.
This advanced technology will boost training opportunities for students, researchers and industry across Victoria -supporting the pipeline of skilled workers ready to build the future manufacturing industry.
The Labor Government backs Geelong as a global innovation centre of automotive-based research and innovation, with this new project supporting more than 20 jobs, internship opportunities and Higher Degree by Research projects.
The Genesis Simulator was funded by the Government's unprecedented $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund (VHESIF), developed to help universities respond to the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Fund supports universities with capital works, applied research and research infrastructure focused on boosting Victoria's productivity.
As stated by Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney
"The new Genesis Simulator will boost our existing skills and knowledge in vehicle manufacturing - driving innovation and creating world-first solutions."
"This will lead to ground-breaking research partnerships with companies and industry bodies across the automotive sector, emergency services, transport companies, and health bodies."
As stated by Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty Ben Carroll
"Victoria is Australia's manufacturing state - employing more than 260,000 people. That's why we're making sure our local workforce have the skills they need to power our economy."
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
"We're investing locally to ensure that workers have the most advanced skills to continue to manufacture the most cutting-edge products."
As stated by Deakin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research Professor Julie Owens
"IISRI has more than 15-years' experience in motion simulation research and is home to Australia's biggest multi-disciplinary team of world-class mobility researchers and PhD students. Deakin University is excited to launch our new Genesis simulator to support new industry partnerships, research and innovation."
