QUT launches first Australian chair in digital economy

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) last week launched Australia’s first chair in digital economy to help lead digital transformation in Queensland and prepare graduates for jobs of the future.

The new chair position is the result of a partnership between QUT's Business School and Science and Engineering Faculty, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the Queensland Government and Brisbane Marketing.

Officially launched last Thursday evening at QUT Gardens Point, the position will be dedicated to research, innovation and building a digital mindset in graduates across the university, as well as engaging with industry and government.

"The chair will play a crucial role in expanding the understanding and progression of digital capabilities," said QUT acting chair associate professor, Robert Perrons.

"We are in a period of profound change and the chair will be pivotal in understanding how emerging technologies can best be harnessed so our graduates, business and industry can all take full advantage of the opportunities of the new economy.

"The dynamics of business are rapidly changing. Guiding industry to discover opportunities uniquely available to them in a digital economy is fundamental to the Chair's activities," said associate professor Perrons.

PwC research has revealed innovation and digital technologies together have the potential to increase Australia's productivity and raise GDP by 3.5 per cent and $136 billion over the next 20 years.

"In order to make the most of this opportunity we need students and researchers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” said Luke Sayers, CEO of PwC Australia.

“For this reason we are delighted to be able to partner with innovative organisations like QUT in working towards securing Australia's future."