Google is investing $1 billion in Australia over five years as part of its Digital Future Initiative.
The funding, announced today in Sydney, will see the tech giant invest in infrastructure, research, and partnerships.
Speaking virtually at the event, Google CEO Sundar Pichai says the commitment represents the company’s biggest investment in Australia.
"Today I'm proud to announce our biggest investment in Australia yet, a five-year $1 billion commitment to launch the Digital Future Initiative,” Pichai says.
"This investment will focus on three areas. First, it will help develop Australia's digital infrastructure focused on cloud computing. Cloud is helping Australian companies innovate and grow in every part of the economy.
"Second, it will broaden the opportunity we provide for local tech talent, including the launch of our first research hub in Australia. Google Research Australia will build a team of local researchers and engineers to help tackle important issues, creating jobs and providing education and training.
"Third, we'll create new technology partnerships to help solve Australian and global challenges. That includes working with the CSIRO ... to explore clean energy and protecting the Great Barrier Reef and with Macquarie University to advance quantum computing.
"Partnerships like these will be at the heart of the digital future initiative. We believe a strong digital future is one where everyone has access to technology, the skills to use it where the internet economy fulfills its immense potential.
"And Australia's long tradition of innovation can grow. We look forward to working together, as Australia builds that future. And we can't wait to be part of it."
Prime minister Scott Morrison attended the event and said the investment will have a “ripple effect” across the Australian economy.
Morrison described it as a $1 billion vote of confidence in Australia's digital economy strategy.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.