UNSW Canberra Launch

A collaborative workspace bringing together industry, government and university to grow innovation and capability in defence and security.

Canberra light rail train

The importance of innovation 

UNSW Canberra has identified innovation as one of the most significant sources of sustainable competitive advantage in the current landscape. A shift that opened the door for a dedicated innovation space which allows academics, businesses, government and the ACT community to come together and build on advancements in defence and security capabilities, talent and technology.

Launch on Northbourne is attracting Australian businesses that are integral to the future of Australia’s security. It’s a precursor to the University’s planned Defence and Security Innovation Precinct at the new UNSW Canberra City campus. Currently providing start-ups, enterprises, associations, academics and alumni with countless opportunities for collaboration, in an innovative, secure and social environment.

Launch on Northbourne reception
UNSW Canberra Launch stock imagery photos 216 Northbourne AvenueOpen plan shared office space Elly Mackay, Suzanna Holmes, Rose Mackay

It currently has two locations – Northbourne and Canberra City – both of which have curated and nurtured more than a dozen start-ups, SMEs and UNSW spin-offs, primarily in cyber and space, to develop and scale their innovations and build sovereign capability.

This dynamic environment is a testament to the passion and dedication of our collaborators who believe that true partnership isn’t just a proposition, it’s an initiative we’re rolling out.

  • Collaborative co-working

    Launch is an innovative, secure and social environment where industry, government and university work side-by-side.

  • Cultivating industry networks

    UNSW Canberra encourages interaction between tenants via purpose-designed share zones and regular collaboration networking events.

  • Advancing defence capabilities

    UNSW Canberra is committed to improving capability for Australia’s long-term defence mission. Launch allows industry experts to collaborate and work toward this common goal.

  • Dynamic office and maker spaces

    Launch on Northbourne is a flexible co-working environment with private offices, group suites and breakout areas. The space is fitted out with premium facilities and spaces.

  • Convenient city location

    Launch is located on Northbourne Avenue, a two-minute drive to the city centre. The site sits on the light-rail corridor, within walking distance of Braddon’s entertainment district.

  • Curated partners

    Our collaborators make up a vibrant and eclectic ecosystem of start-ups, associations, academics and enterprises, all providing countless opportunities for innovation.

The UNSW Defence Research Institute

Delivering word-class defence research to enhance Australia’s security.

The UNSW Defence Research Institute (UNSW DRI) was established to stimulate, unify and support all defence-related research within the UNSW community, while striving to build and maintain a network across Australian and International defence industries.

UNSW DRI is committed to advancing defence capabilities using broad-based defence research with excellence in areas such as cyber security, space, systems engineering, logistics, trusted autonomous systems, hypersonics, defence-related public sector management and conflict studies.

Cultivating effective UNSW industry networks

In an industry first for Australia, UNSW Canberra invites defence and security industry start-ups and entrepreneurs to join us in a new innovation ecosystem. Launch will offer opportunities to share infrastructure and ideas, to socialise and network with complementary entities and individuals, and to pool resources.

UNSW industry partners enjoy early access to new research, technology and talent, benefiting from our established networks, technical infrastructure and experience in collaboration and innovation.

Formerly isolated industries and communities are now moving towards more collaborative spaces in urban areas, better facilitating cross-sector innovation, research and problem-solving.

The backbone of innovation districts is the ability to tap into a network of innovators, researchers, thought leaders and existing commercial expertise. Launch on Northbourne builds on a successful base of established activity, talent and infrastructure, maintained by UNSW Canberra at ADFA and the greater UNSW network.

Operations at Launch on Northbourne model the future Launch precinct which will form part of the new UNSW Canberra City campus.

A second UNSW campus for Canberra

UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) is now at capacity and the new Canberra City campus will allow the University to expand its offerings, creating a world class environment within the parliamentary triangle. The new campus will be instrumental in aligning with UNSW’s strategic priorities of academic excellence, social engagement and global impact.

This campus environment will provide a sense of pride in UNSW as students, staff, alumni, members of the local community, and partners from the defence and security community located adjacent to the campus come together to innovate, transform, learn and contribute.

Stay in contact

216 Northbourne Avenue
Braddon, ACT 2612

Email: enquiries@canberra.unsw.edu.au

Phone: (02) 5114 5241