Global leader in industrial automation and robotics, OMRON, has officially launched its first Proof of Concept (PoC) Centre in Oceania, co-located with Western Sydney University at the Engineering Innovation Hub in Parramatta.
As the first PoC of OMRON in Oceania, it is designed to empower manufacturers across Australia and New Zealand by de-risking innovation, advancing sovereign manufacturing capabilities, and developing future-ready talent. The facility is expected to attract up to 20,000 visitors and is estimated to add $150 million to the local economy in the next five years.
More than just an enabler of world-class technologies — such as automation, robotics, AI, machine vision, IoT, safety solutions, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) — the OMRON Centre offers a complete engineering service experience for Oceania customers. This includes feasibility studies, PoC trials, engineering projects, training and seminars, co-credentialed upskilling programs, joint R&D initiatives, and innovation support.
In conjunction with the opening, OMRON and Western Sydney University also signed a Stage 2 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), expanding their partnership to accelerate innovation in advanced manufacturing, and develop future-ready STEM talent across the Asia Pacific.
This milestone builds on the success of Stage 1 and enabled the launch of Western Sydney University's Factory of the Future and provided students with real-world experience in robotics, AI, and industrial automation through placements within OMRON and its broader ecosystem. The partnership is now scaling up to leverage the global networks, domain expertise, and R&D capabilities of both organisations.
Western Sydney University Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AO called the Centre "a game changer" for industry and students.
"Our collaboration with OMRON gives businesses direct access to job-ready STEM talent — equipped with practical skills, joint R&D programs and real-world experience to contribute from day one. Western Sydney University is continuing to lead the way in helping transform Western Sydney into a powerhouse of opportunity through valued partnerships like this, which deliver high-skilled jobs and new industries.''
Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said strengthening the relationship between the two organisations will drive innovation and opportunity.
"Western Sydney University is proud to strengthen our collaboration with OMRON to deliver education, innovation, and jobs to boost economic growth and drive productivity for the Western Sydney region and beyond. This partnership demonstrates the transformative power of universities and industry working hand in hand to shape the future through knowledge sharing, research and skills development."
"In particular, this collaboration will ensure exceptional work-integrated learning opportunities for our students and generate a future pipeline of highly-skilled, industry-ready graduates for Australia's robotics and advanced manufacturing sectors."
"Stage 1 laid a strong foundation," said Don Teng, Managing Director of OMRON Asia Pacific. "With Stage 2, we're building on that momentum by exploring new opportunities across the Asia Pacific and worldwide— connecting global R&D, sharing engineering and domain expertise, and extending our knowledge to empower students, researchers, and industry partners."
Stage 2 of the MoU will focus on a scalable model for regional collaboration and global Innovation. It will include:
- Accelerating innovation for societal needs – Driving solutions in agriculture, education, healthcare, food and beverage, and semiconductor manufacturing.
- Building future talent and skills – Expanding internships, technical training, and co-designed courses to develop industry-ready graduates and upskill the workforce.
- Deepening R&D and regional engagement – Advancing robotics, automation, and AI through shared platforms, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and exploring co-location in Asia Pacific regions.
