A large-scale cryogenic facility comparable to a supermarket is set to be installed near Brisbane Airport to support PsiQuantum’s development of a full-scale quantum computer.
Background and Context
A global initiative to build a utility-scale quantum computer has taken a major step forward with the planned installation of a large cryogenic cooling plant near Brisbane Airport. The project is being led by Silicon Valley-based firm PsiQuantum and is supported by a $470 million commitment from the State. A matching contribution from the federal government brings the total investment to nearly $1 billion.
The project was outlined in the Managing Queensland’s Debt and Investments 2024 report, which detailed various financial priorities, including the state’s rising capital program and infrastructure outlays.
Quantum System Requirements
At the centre of the Brisbane development is a cryogenic plant built by German company Linde Engineering. The system will operate at 4 Kelvin, or -269°C, using helium gas cooled to a liquid state. The facility will span nearly 3437 square metres, making it the largest cryoplant built specifically for quantum computing.
PsiQuantum’s approach differs from traditional quantum computing designs by using photons instead of matter-based qubits, allowing operation at slightly higher temperatures than systems that require near absolute zero conditions.
This design has enabled faster development towards a 1-million-qubit computer — the level at which quantum systems are expected to begin solving complex, real-world problems in fields such as medical research, clean energy, and industrial chemistry.
Local and International Links
The site near Brisbane Airport was chosen partly due to existing research networks in Queensland. PsiQuantum is collaborating with five Queensland universities—including UQ, Griffith, QUT, and USC—leveraging local academic links, with two of its founders having studied in the state.
PsiQuantum is also establishing a test laboratory at Griffith University while the primary facility is under construction, with an aim to develop a skilled local workforce.
Next Steps
The cryogenic plant is being built in Europe and will later be transported to Brisbane for assembly. Once completed, it will be assembled by local engineers. The facility is expected to form the foundation of the world’s first commercial-scale quantum computing system.
The state’s investment is part of a broader capital works program contributing to increased debt levels, with total borrowings reaching $139.2 billion as of 30 June 2024. Despite this, Queensland’s investment signals a focus on long-term innovation and technology development through projects such as the Brisbane quantum computer.
Published 10-May-2025
