PsiQuantum Secures Site for World’s First Utility-Scale Quantum Computer

PsiQuantum is repurposing the former Petrie Paper Mill site in Moreton Bay Central, Australia, to house the world’s first utility-scale quantum computer, with early site work already begun and a formal groundbreaking scheduled for June. The selection of the Moreton Bay Central location, also planned to host events during the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, utilizes existing large-scale industrial infrastructure and power capacity crucial for complex manufacturing. “PsiQuantum’s mission to build the world’s first utility-scale quantum computer requires speed, agility, and strong partnerships,” said Victor Peng, Interim Chief Executive Officer of PsiQuantum. “City of Moreton Bay provides the infrastructure, scalability, and collaborative environment we need to deliver.” This project positions Queensland as a growing hub for advanced manufacturing and marks a significant step toward realizing practical quantum computing capabilities.

Moreton Bay Central Selected for Utility-Scale Quantum Computer

The selection of Moreton Bay Central in Queensland, Australia, as the site for PsiQuantum’s utility-scale quantum computer represents a move beyond traditional tech hubs and into repurposed industrial land. The project will be located on the grounds of the former Petrie Paper Mill, chosen for its pre-existing large-scale industrial infrastructure and readily available power and utility capacity, essential for the energy demands of advanced computing. This decision differs from typical placements in dedicated science parks, instead leveraging established resources to accelerate development. The location’s proximity to the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games venue precinct was also a key factor, integrating the quantum computing initiative into a broader framework of regional development and international visibility. Moreton Bay Central aims to foster a wider innovation ecosystem to housing the quantum computer itself.

The site is adjacent to the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay Campus and a future TAFE Centre of Excellence dedicated to advanced manufacturing, creating opportunities for collaboration and skills development. “This is about more than a single project; it’s about building a connected innovation precinct where education, research and industry work side-by-side to drive new jobs, new capability and long-term economic growth for Queensland,” explained Jodie Shipway, Deputy Mayor of City of Moreton Bay. The project is anticipated to drive highly skilled jobs and attract new industry to the region, solidifying Queensland’s position in future technologies.

PsiQuantum’s Photonic Approach to System Scalability

PsiQuantum’s decision to locate its utility-scale quantum computer construction at Moreton Bay Central in Queensland represents a departure from typical technology park placements, prioritizing instead the repurposing of existing large-scale industrial infrastructure. This strategic choice underscores a pragmatic approach to scalability, focusing on leveraging established resources to accelerate development timelines. PsiQuantum partnered closely with City of Moreton Bay to secure a site capable of supporting the infrastructure and operational requirements for this undertaking. The company’s photonic approach to quantum computing is central to this accelerated timeline, enabling the use of high-volume semiconductor manufacturing techniques and existing cryogenic infrastructure.

Queensland Partnerships Support Quantum Computing Development

City of Moreton Bay officials emphasize the economic benefits extending beyond the immediate project. “This investment will help drive highly skilled jobs, attract new industry, and strengthen Queensland’s position in advanced manufacturing and future technologies,” stated Peter Flannery, Mayor of City of Moreton Bay. New energy infrastructure commissioned in anticipation of the Olympic Games will also support PsiQuantum’s operational needs, while the company concurrently establishes a Test and Validation Lab at Griffith University’s Nathan campus, bolstering Queensland’s growing quantum capabilities.