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.
Types of projects
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. Testbed projects 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 MelbourneOpens in new tab.
Current testbed pilots
- Data in the park Argyle SquareOpens in new tab
- Laneway waste management Bullens LaneOpens in new tab
- Micro-Labs: Reimagining retailOpens in new tab
- Open Arcade: Gaming for everyoneOpens in new tab
- Social Spaces: Designing public space with dataOpens in new tab
- Data in the park - Royal ParkOpens in new tab
- Communicating City SensingOpens in new tab
- Southbank Promenade: A shared thoroughfareOpens in new tab
- Remix Raingardens: Repurposing local wasteOpens in new tab
