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                    Emerging Technology Testbed

                    Person using phone touchscreen to pay for groceries
                    Technology and data are increasingly playing a part in our daily lives, continuing to change how we live, work and play. The Emerging Technology Testbed allows us to collaboratively explore the possibilities of data and technology for our city now and in the future.

                    About the Testbed

                    The Emerging Technology Testbed is where we collaboratively explore the function of new and emerging technologies, such as 5G and the Internet of Things, and the different processes that support them. Most importantly, the Testbed allows us to explore how these technologies impact Melbourne on a city scale, community scale, and for the individual. 

                    This leads to data and insights that can help inform decision-making around the application of emerging technology in our city.  

                    How testbeds are coordinated 

                    Testbed projects involve a variety of challenges, pilots and trials, to learn about risks and unlock possibilities so that new technologies best support the people who live, work, and play here. 

                    • Challenges are competitions inviting pitches that innovate through technology and data to address pertinent city issues. 
                    • Pilots are collaborative projects, which explores various technologies applied to a key area; challenges can inform pilots
                    • Trials occur in an ongoing capacity through industry collaborations to explore specific new and emerging technology. 

                    How this aligns with our 2021-2025 Council Plan 

                    The Emerging Technology Testbed forms part of our ‘Economy of the Future’ strategic objective. These testbeds will help us to support the development of globally competitive ecosystems through international engagement, emerging technology trials and digital infrastructure delivery. This will then assist to position Melbourne as an accessible and attractive environment for domestic and international start-ups and technology companies.

                    For more information and how you can get involved, visit Participate Melbourne.

                    Current testbed pilots

                    Contact us

                    Contact name
                    Emerging Technology Testbed team
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