Smart Cities program exceeds expectations

The federal government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs Program has already received more than 170 applications.

Grants of between $100,000 and $5 million will be provided to facilitate technology solutions to everyday problems in Australian cities, suburbs and regions.

Based on the total value of projects submitted, the program has the potential to leverage $3 of partner investment for every dollar from the Commonwealth.

Local governments in particular responded positively to the program, putting forward around two-thirds of the applications. One-quarter of the applications were from the private sector, while the remaining applications came from universities, research organisations and not-for-profits.

“The number of applications exceeded our expectations and shows how keen communities are to drive local-level innovation,” said Assistant Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation Angus Taylor.

Proposed projects include water and waste efficiency improvements, urban planning, traffic and transport management, infrastructure maintenance, and community engagement.

Applications for round one of the program closed on 30 June 2017, with an announcement of successful projects expected in October.

In the meantime, stakeholders interested in building their smart city knowledge and capability can access Future Ready, a national incubation series supporting co-learning and collaboration. Events run through to September.

Image credit: ©Oleksiy Mark/Dollar Photo Club

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook