South Australia’s thriving innovation economy has received another major boost, with Qantas announcing it will establish a new Product Innovation Centre in Adelaide’s CBD — the first of its kind outside Sydney — creating more than 420 high-tech jobs by 2028.
The landmark commercial agreement between the SA Government and Qantas cements South Australia’s reputation as a national leader in digital innovation, coinciding with news that employment in the state has reached an all-time high.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a record 986,500 South Australians are now in work, with the state’s unemployment rate dropping from 4.6 to 4.3 per cent (seasonally adjusted).
The new Qantas centre will consolidate the airline’s digital and technology teams into a single regional delivery hub, supported by a local leadership team and dedicated HR and administrative staff. The move is expected to supercharge South Australia’s innovation ecosystem, creating new opportunities for UI/UX designers, software developers, business analysts and product owners.
A partnership with Adelaide University will further strengthen the state’s position at the forefront of Australia’s digital future, supporting graduate recruitment and advanced AI research through the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML). Scholarships for PhD and Honours students will also be offered under the Institute’s Industrial AI program.
Premier Peter Malinauskas said the announcement underscores his government’s focus on creating highly skilled jobs and building the state’s economic complexity. “My government is committed to growing jobs, lifting South Australia’s economic complexity and improving the standard of living for all South Australians,” he said.
“Through strategic partnerships under this agreement, including the collaboration between Adelaide University and the Australian Institute for Machine Learning (AIML), we are building a strong pipeline of talent with advanced AI and digital skillsets. This initiative will ensure South Australia remains at the forefront of emerging technologies and future workforce opportunities.”
Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs said the deal reflects confidence in South Australia’s economy. “Today’s announcement adds to the more than $3 billion that has already been secured by Invest SA in just its first three years, after the dedicated agency was established by the Malinauskas Government to fulfil an election commitment.
“Our Government’s investment efforts are focused on attracting projects like this that result in well-paid, secure jobs that build our future economy.”
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said Adelaide’s growing tech ecosystem made it the ideal location.
“Adelaide offers access to world-class universities, a thriving technology sector, and the ability to scale our in-house capability. This is why we’re excited to be working with the South Australian government to start and grow our new Centre.
“By bringing together the best Australian talent, the Centre will transform how we deliver for our customers, creating smarter, more seamless travel experiences for millions of Qantas customers.”
Adelaide University Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Jessica Gallagher said the partnership aligns with the university’s vision for innovation. “Adelaide University is pleased to be entering into a strategic partnership with one of Australia’s best-known enterprises, Qantas.
“Qantas and Adelaide University share a mutual interest in driving innovation and technological advancements, especially in the field of AI, supporting workforce development and contributing to the long-term future of Australia’s aviation sector.”
More News
