ECU secures state innovation grant

Edith Cowan University is the first beneficiary of the state government’s much-touted innovation strategy, with $800,000 earmarked for a cyber security hub at Joondalup.

The grant is from the government’s $16.7 million new industries fund, which was formally launched today.

The state government will contribute $600,000 so ECU can employ a business development manager to facilitate growth of small and emerging cyber-security businesses.

An additional $200,000 has been allocated to support development of the cyber security industry.  

Premier Mark McGowan said the new industries fund would support new and emerging businesses, and help create a more diversified economy.

“It’s vital that WA is an active player in the innovation economy, and that as a government we ensure new industries have every opportunity to thrive and grow,” Mr McGowan said in a statement.

ECU vice-chancellor Steve Chapman acknowledged the support of the premier and Innovation Minister Dave Kelly.

“They understand innovation and they’re really leading on it,” Professor Chapman said.

“I also appreciate acknowledgement of ECU’s role in cyber security and our partnership with the City of Joondalup.

“We want Joondalup to be thought of as the cyber city.

“And with the investment we’re getting from the federal government and the state government and from industry and other partners I think that’s going to be a huge success.”

ECU is one of 25 industry, research and government partners in the recently launched Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre, which is due to get $50 million of federal government money over the next seven years.

The new industries fund is essentially a cut-down version of the $20 million innovation fund launched by the former Barnett government last year.

It includes $4.5 million allocated to regional areas, $2 million for grants and government programs, and $950,000 for science industry fellowships. 

The Innovator of the Year and Innovation Vouchers programs will continue to be supported by the fund.