Transforming robotics at UTS

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has launched the Robotics Institute, a cutting-edge research centre at the forefront of robotics research and innovation, led by globally recognised robotics and mechatronics expert Professor Sarath Kodagoda.  

The UTS Robotics Institute brings together more than 80 researchers to develop customised robotics solutions for industry, government, and not-for-profit partners in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, health, manufacturing and defence. 

The Institute was officially opened by The Hon. Ed Husic MP, Federal Minister for Industry and Science, together with experts and industry leaders in the field of robotics.

“Your aspiration to become a global leader in robotics is one that is wholeheartedly supported by government. We see immense potential for our country in the field of robotics and automation,” said Minister Husic.

“The huge economic benefit is projected to range from $170 billion to $600 billion annually to Australia’s GDP by 2030. Your current robotics research, along with future contributions from the Institute, are vital to enhancing our national capabilities.”

UTS Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Andrew Parfitt said the launch of the Robotics Institute celebrates a significant milestone in the advancement of robotics at UTS. 

“It’s a real privilege today to be able to evolve the next iteration of UTS’s contribution to robotics, the launch of the UTS Robotics Institute out of the Centre for Autonomous Systems, and to build on the work of the previous ARC Centre of Excellence,” said Professor Parfitt.

“This has led to genuinely world-class capacity that has made so many contributions both to the science of robotics and to how industry will be able to develop and utilise the next generation of robotics,” he said.

The event showcased key projects including a groundbreaking robotic solution to maintain the Sydney Harbour Bridge, robots to support NBN’s vast infrastructure, and an innovative partnership with Sydney Water to deliver robotic systems to assess the condition of buried metallic water pipes and concrete sewerage pipes.

A panel discussion, moderated by Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte, NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer, and member of the National Robotics Strategy Advisory Committee, explored the current state of robotics in Australia and strategies for nurturing a sustainable industry. 

Panelists included Minister Husic, Sue Keay, Chair of the Board of Directors at Robotics Australia Group, Daniel Cooper, Head of Innovation and Product Development at Sydney Water, and UTS Associate Professor Teresa Vidal Calleja, Head of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering.

The panel highlighted the importance of access to venture capital and other funding sources to develop and support local robotics companies and allow them to scale and grow. 

Professor Peta Wyeth, Dean of the UTS Faculty of Engineering and IT, emphasised the importance of working across boundaries between industry and academia, and working with government, to develop a sustainable ecosystem to tackle the complex challenges that lie ahead.

“We also need to build capability and enable our best students to engage in robotics and other technologies, so they can go on to create their own startups and live their dreams through those innovative ventures,” she said.

“This discussion has also underscored the importance of funding, and how we need to work together to secure capital to build a foundation for future success and collaboration in the field of robotics.”

Professor Kodagoda, the driving force behind the Robotics Institute, celebrated the numerous achievements stemming from UTS's Centre for Autonomous Systems, including more than 70 research and industry awards, through sustained collaborations with industry.

“Today's launch event marks our transformation from the Centre for Autonomous Systems to the Robotics Institute, and with this, our commitment to pioneering research, impactful contributions, and a culture of innovation and education,” said Professor Kodagoda.

“Thank you to our team, comprised of world-class researchers who not only publish some of the most highly cited papers but also possess an unwavering drive to challenge convention, and to deliver research that enhances safety, efficiency and sustainability.”