The Fortitude Valley Science Week summit will bring Queensland’s advanced technology sector into focus at The Precinct on Tuesday, 18 August. Qx Summit is part of Science Week, and it comes with a clear brief: show how quantum and other advanced technologies are already taking shape in Queensland.
This year’s theme is “Make it in Queensland”. The day will centre on local capability, real-world applications and the partnerships helping shape the state’s quantum ecosystem.
The summit will run as a hybrid event, with people able to attend in person or join via livestream. That should open the door to a wider audience across Queensland and beyond.
A full day of practical science
The program will be led by master of ceremonies Dr Joel Gilmore. It will open with a Welcome to Country, followed by remarks from Dr Grant Woollett and a virtual welcome from Minister Andrew Powell.
From there, the focus shifts to the Quantum 2032 Challenge, with projects linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The sessions will look at how quantum research is being applied to athlete health, concussion diagnostics and hydration monitoring.
The summit will also feature Queensland Stories, with local startups and innovators outlining work in quantum and advanced technologies. It is a strong reminder that this is not just theory. It is about work already happening here.
Skills, industry and the next step
The Fortitude Valley Science Week summit will also turn to the workforce question. Sessions across the day will cover training, education and pathways into quantum and advanced technology careers.
That matters for a sector that is growing quickly. The summit will look at how Queensland is building the talent pipeline needed to support future industry growth.
Other sessions will cover Quantum for Health, the national outlook through Quantum Australia, and Queensland’s ability to prototype, test and manufacture emerging technologies. The day will also hear from major names including PsiQuantum and Cicada Innovations.
A local venue with a national conversation
The Precinct will host the summit from 8.45am to 5.45pm. Arrival networking begins at 8.30am, with coffee available. Lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea are also part of the program.
The day will wrap up with networking drinks at Pig ’N’ Whistle on Brunswick Street.
For Fortitude Valley, it is another example of the suburb hosting a big ideas event with local relevance. The Fortitude Valley Science Week summit brings science, industry and investment into one room, with Queensland’s quantum future firmly in view.
Published 10-August-2026
