The Queensland Defence Science Alliance (QDSA) and Defence Science Centre (DSC) are proud to announce the inaugural winning project of the Northern Australian Defence Project – a milestone that marks the first national ADSUN project spanning Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia.
This collaborative effort brings together researchers from six prestigious institutions: James Cook University, Griffith University, Charles Darwin University, Curtin University, Murdoch University, and Edith Cowan University. With each expert bringing specific expertise, the team will unite to tackle the critical Defence priority of waste management through innovative Waste-to-Energy (WtE) solutions.
This first-ever grant round attracted an exceptional response, with extremely innovative and high-quality proposals submitted, making it an extremely competitive process.
QDSA Director, Stuart Blackwell, said the WtE technologies in the project promise a dual-purpose solution, capable of converting operational waste into supplementary energy.
“This project represents a pivotal advancement in our approach to Defence logistics. By transforming waste into energy, we reduce reliance on vulnerable diesel generators and address the pressing issue of waste management amid harsh environmental conditions,” Mr Blackwell said.
“The ability to convert waste into useful energy is not just an innovation; it’s a necessity for the operational efficiency of our Defence forces.”
“As the Queensland and Northern Territory arm of ADSUN, QDSA is excited to be supporting this historic collaboration and we anticipate it will be the first of many across the country,” he said.
Under the leadership of James Cook University, this initiative focuses on Deployable Waste-to-Energy Microgrids for forward-deployed Defence infrastructure. Leveraging advanced microgrid designs and energy management systems, the team is seeking to integrate solar PV, battery storage, and Waste-to-Energy technologies, offering a resilient alternative to traditional power sources.
The project aims to provide logistical solutions by reducing waste generated during field operations and converting it into energy, significantly boosting the autonomy and sustainability of Defence operations.
Western Australian Defence Advocate, Rear Admiral Phillip Spedding, DSC AM, RAN (rtd) said the DSC is proud to be part of this landmark collaboration.
“The power of the ADSUN network lies in its ability to unite expertise across states and institutions to deliver practical, innovative solutions for Defence,” Rear Admiral Spedding said.
“By harnessing Waste-to-Energy technologies, we’re not only addressing an operational challenge but also driving innovation that strengthens Defence resilience in remote and contested environments. This project exemplifies how national partnerships can deliver practical, sustainable solutions for the future of Defence,” he said.
The project addresses logistical and environmental challenges, while also promising operational gains such as increased energy autonomy, reduced supply chain vulnerabilities, and superior environmental performance. Through scalable microgrids, Defence bases will experience enhanced energy solutions tailored for remote and contested environments.
The Northern Australian Defence Project will share a $400,000 investment across Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia; with the Project commencing in March 2026 and will conclude within 18 months.
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