Australian Research Council (ARC) Chief Executive Officer Professor Sue Thomas welcomed the official launch of the new ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hub for Smart Next Generation Transport Pavements (SPARC).
The SPARC, led by Monash University, will aim to reduce the road construction and maintenance costs of the Australian road network.
Professor Thomas said the Research Hub is receiving $5 million in funding through the ARC over five years to develop innovative materials, designs, and technologies, facilitate skill development, and drive commercial benefits for the Australian Pavement Industry.
“The SPARC Hub brings together researchers and industry to create innovative solutions that could potentially save Australia billions of dollars by making pavements smarter, longer lasting, safer and with a lower environmental footprint,” Professor Thomas said.
“They will also be training an industry-ready workforce to make Australia’s transport pavements smarter and sustainable.”
Monash University will lead the project and will collaborate with Swinburne University of Technology, RMIT University, Queensland University of Technology, Curtin University, University of the Sunshine Coast, The University of New South Wales and the University of Technology Sydney.
The Research Hub also has strong links with 28 national, international and government partners.
