Signing of Memorandum of Cooperation on between Japan and Australia on Quantum Science, Technology, and Innovation

July 27, 2026
Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Office for Science, Technology and Innovation

１．Overview

On July 27, 2026, Ms. Kimi Onoda, Minister of State for Science and Technology Policy of the Cabinet Office, signed the “Memorandum of Cooperation between Japan and Australia on Quantum Science, Technology and Innovation” with the Hon. Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science of Australia.

The Memorandum of Cooperation establishes a new framework to further strengthen cooperation between Japan and Australia in the field of quantum science, technology and innovation. It aims to promote collaboration across a broad range of areas, including research and development, commercialization, industrial collaboration, utilization of research infrastructure, human resource development, investment promotion, and economic security.

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２．Background and Purpose

Japan and Australia have maintained a close and longstanding partnership in science and technology. In the quantum field, the two countries have collaborated for more than three decades through joint research activities and personnel exchanges, producing numerous achievements, particularly in quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communications.

The year 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between Japan and Australia. In May 2026, Prime Minister Takaichi and Prime Minister Albanese issued the Japan-Australia Joint Declaration on Economic Security Cooperation, identifying quantum technologies as one of the priority areas for cooperation in critical and emerging technologies.

Australia is advancing research and development, commercialization, and startup growth under its National Quantum Strategy and possesses a world-leading research base and innovation ecosystem in quantum technologies. Japan is also promoting quantum technology research and development, as well as initiatives to accelerate social implementation and commercialization, based on national strategies including the Quantum Technology Innovation Strategy and related public-private investment roadmaps.

Building upon the Agreement between the Government of Japan and the Government of Australia on Cooperation in Science and Technology Research and Development signed in 1980, this Memorandum of Cooperation further develops bilateral cooperation and connects the quantum strategies of both countries. By promoting comprehensive collaboration in quantum science, technology and innovation, Japan and Australia aim to accelerate the development of trusted quantum ecosystems and the practical deployment of quantum technologies, while contributing to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

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３．Key Areas of Cooperation

Based on this Memorandum of Cooperation, Japan and Australia will promote cooperation, in accordance with their respective laws, regulations and policies, primarily in the following areas:

・Quantum Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region
Promoting the safe and responsible development and use of quantum technologies and enhancing cooperation to address societal challenges and strengthen economic resilience across the Indo-Pacific region.

・Utilization of Research and Manufacturing Infrastructure
Promoting research, development, and technology demonstration through the mutual use of research facilities, manufacturing infrastructure, and related capabilities.

・Commercialization and Use Case Development
Supporting the practical application of research outcomes and the creation of new use cases through pilot projects, demonstration activities, and early adoption initiatives.

・Industrial Collaboration and Investment Promotion
Encouraging collaboration among companies and cooperation with venture capital firms and institutional investors to support the growth of quantum startups and industrial development.

・Human Resource Development and Research Exchange
Promoting the development of future quantum talent and strengthening international networks through joint research, researcher exchanges, and educational programs.

・Supply Chain Resilience
Enhancing cooperation to strengthen supply chains for materials, components, and products necessary for quantum technologies.

・Security, Governance and Standardization
Promoting cooperation on governance, international standardization, and responsible innovation, taking into account the implications of quantum technologies for national security and economic security.

This Memorandum of Cooperation provides a comprehensive framework that extends beyond research collaboration to include commercialization, industrialization, talent development, investment promotion, and economic security. Through this framework, Japan and Australia seek to build trusted quantum ecosystems and advance the safe and responsible development and use of quantum technologies throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

４．Original Text of the Memorandum of Cooperation

５．Contact Information

Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
Office for Science, Technology and Innovation
Quantum and Materials Division
Tel: +81-3-6257-1153

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