Fujitsu Australia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the intention to become the ‘anchor tenant’ in partnership with the Victorian State Government to develop a Hi-Tech Precinct in Morwell, Victoria.

Supported by a government investment of up to $17 million, the purpose-built, high technology Precinct is set to promote innovation, productivity and job creation with a focus on industry sectors central to the future of Gippsland such as Health, New Energy, Food and Fibre, and Professional Services.

Fujitsu has flagged for discussion the creation of a service centre operation as well as a groundbreaking “Open Innovation” concept which would take the form of an ‘open innovation laboratory’ where Gippsland’s research, business and education communities can access Fujitsu’s computing and data analytics capabilities to enhance their productivity and competitiveness.

Further progression of the partnership will now depend on a business case, which will be presented in May 2017.

“This project will be one of the first of its kind in Australia, and has the potential to accelerate business, research and education success in the Gippsland region,” said Glen Grant, Vice President of Sales for Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand, adding that the initiative would facilitate digital transformation and innovation.

The community can also “opt in” to share and cross-pollinate their raw data and subsequent research, to strengthen the collective efforts of the region improving business success and global competitiveness.

The MoU provides a framework for the joint development of the Precinct site, the establishment of jobs within the Precinct and for an Open Innovation Concept to be integrated into the Precinct and the Morwell Tech School. Its construction is expected to create at least 80 new jobs, with hundreds of ongoing full time jobs to follow.

“This Hi-Tech Precinct will link industry with students, creating more jobs where they’re needed most,” said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews.