Australia's journey to net zero emissions has taken a significant step forward with the official launch of the ARC Research Hub for Infrastructure Net Zero (NetZero Hub) at Monash University. This initiative is set to revolutionise the construction sector, driving innovation, sustainability and economic strength across the nation.
Prof Yiannis Ventikos (Dean of Engineering, Monash University), Adjunct Associate Professor Dr Matthew French (Senior Director, Research Missions and Global Impact, DVC Research and Enterprise, Monash University), ARC Academic Director Prof Alison Ross, and Director of NetZero Hub Prof Wenhui Duan. Image Credit: Supplied.
A national mission
Achieving net zero by 2050 is a nationally agreed target, and the construction sector, which employs around 1.2 million Australians, will play a critical role in this effort. The ARC NetZero Hub is dedicated to transforming how infrastructure is designed, built, and maintained, with a mission to drive low-carbon innovation across every stage of the infrastructure pipeline.
Supported by $5 million in ARC funding over 5 years, alongside $6.2 million in university and industry partner cash contributions and $8.7 million in-kind support, the Hub brings together nine Australian universities, 1 international university, and 21 industry partners. This multidisciplinary team is setting new standards for sustainability, resilience and economic strength in Australia's built environment.
Pioneering digital infrastructure
The ARC NetZero Hub is focused on digitalising every stage of Australia's infrastructure lifecycle to help achieve net zero emissions. This means using advanced digital technologies, such as infrastructure digital twins, artificial intelligence, and robotics, to improve how infrastructure is planned, built, operated and maintained.
By addressing challenges like excessive carbon emissions and outdated construction practices, the Hub is helping the sector become more sustainable and efficient. In line with Australia's 2030 Digital Economy Strategy, the Hub integrates digital twins with low-carbon materials, eco-friendly structural designs, and modern operation and maintenance methods to reinvent the performance and profitability of the infrastructure industry.
Advancing collaboration and innovation
ARC Academic Director Professor Alison Ross emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation.
'Travelling here this morning, I found myself imagining a future where the infrastructure that connects our cities and regions is smarter and truly sustainable - where every bridge, road, and building is part of a cleaner, greener Australia. By working together, you are not only advancing innovation, but also setting new standards for sustainability, resilience, and economic strength.'
The ARC Research Hub for Infrastructure Net Zero creates a blueprint for the future of Australia's construction industry through digital infrastructure innovation.
Learn more about the work of the ARC Research Hub for Infrastructure Net Zero and follow its progress as it helps shape a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable built environment for generations to come.
