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Quantum computing is an emerging technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally new ways. Realising practical quantum computers however, will require advances in research across areas from device fabrication and cryogenic engineering, to quantum control, error correction, and algorithm design.
Progress in these disciplines depends critically on the ability to rapidly test new ideas on real hardware.
The National Quantum Computing Testbed (NQCT) is designed to address this capability. As a national research facility, it enables researchers to experimentally explore and validate new concepts, helping bridge the gap between theoretical proposals and working quantum systems.
Unlike proprietary quantum platforms, the testbed provides low-level access to quantum hardware, allowing researchers to investigate the full quantum computing stack from superconducting devices and cryogenic hardware to control systems, error-correction protocols, and quantum algorithms. Providing a level of accessibility to quantum hardware never before seen in the public domain.
Accelerating progress in quantum computing will require an increased level of access for all sectors to experimentally test new ideas on real hardware. The NQCT provides a shared platform that enables researchers, educators, and industry professionals to do just that.
Open Hardware Access
Researchers can interact directly with quantum hardware and control systems.
Reproducible Experiments
Stable, well-characterised quantum processing units (QPUs) and reliably managed hardware provide a consistent platform to develop new ideas.
Rapid Experimental Development
New components, materials, and control methods can be tested in real time on an active quantum platform that has the ability to transition with current research trends.
Collaborative Infrastructure
The facility supports partnerships across universities, national laboratories, and industry.
NQCT is built around the superconducting circuit quantum electrodynamics (cQED) platform. Core capabilities of the facility include:
High-Fidelity superconducting qubit devices
Dilution refrigerators operating at millikelvin temperatures
High-fidelity microwave control, readout and feedback systems
Flexible experimental control software
Infrastructure for rapid quantum device prototyping
This infrastructure enables experimental research and prototyping across the full quantum computing stack.
NQCT is designed as an open national resource for the Australian quantum research community.
Researchers from universities, government laboratories, and industry may access the facility through collaborative research programs and scheduled experimental allocations. NQCT provides both open collaborative access and dedicated experimental time, enabling users to conduct experiments with exclusive use of the platform during allocated periods.
By lowering the barrier to experimental quantum hardware, the NQCT aims to expand Australia’s capacity for quantum technology development.
The National Quantum Computing Testbed is supported by the Queensland Government and delivered in collaboration with leading research institutions and technology partners. These partnerships bring together expertise in quantum hardware, cryogenic engineering, precision instrumentation, and advanced measurement systems to support the development of Australia’s quantum research infrastructure.
NQCT works closely with academic, government, and industry partners to build and operate an open experimental platform for quantum computing research.
The experimental operations of the NQCT are based at the University of Queensland, with software and algorithm development carried out in collaboration with CSIRO. The platform is further supported by industry partners Zurich Instruments, Rohde & Schwarz, and QuantWare, who provide specialised instrumentation and quantum hardware technologies. The cloud resources for platform deployment are supported by Pawsey.
