Technology & Communications

Adelaide is an innovative telecommunications hub that’s been rated as the world’s equal second most cost-competitive city for software and multimedia development.

With its lower business costs and enviable quality of life, which helps attract and retain highly skilled ICT workers, it is an ideal location in which to base an information and communications technology (ICT) company.

The City is a telecommunications hub with significant infrastructure and major communication links to national and international destinations. Next generation high-speed broadband internet is available throughout the City, which was one of the first to offer free wireless broadband access which now covers large areas of central Adelaide, and is on a par with cities such as San Francisco and Chicago.

Construction of SABRENet, an 80km ultra high-speed optic cable, was completed in 2007 and now links all universities, research institutes and major hospitals in the City.

Digital media companies have access to Cine.net, a super-fast broadband communication network, while the Adelaide-based M.Net Corporation works with national and global organisations to develop new mobile internet services.

Three City-based universities - Adelaide, Uni SA and Carnegie Mellon - provide undergraduate and post-graduate computer engineering and associated ICT management degrees, while both Adelaide and Uni SA have strong co-ordinated research programs.

According to South Australia’s ICT Council, Adelaide has a lot to offer ICT investors and companies seeking opportunities in Australia, with the sector forecast to achieve annual growth rates greater than 10% over the next five years.

This includes a history of successfully commercialising university research, developing and creating spin-off companies, a strong economy supplying and supporting the ICT industry, and a low cost-base for research and development in comparison with the US and Europe.
South Australian based information technology companies have been described as being among the most ground breaking in Australia.

It’s a view shared by former US entrepreneur Matthew Michalewicz, now an Adelaide resident: “Adelaide has an ICT sector that’s very collaborative and very innovative, and it has phenomenal support at the Department of Trade and Economic Development,” he says.

Finding skilled staff is a major factor inhibiting organisational growth, but the City provides the best location in South Australia to access the broadest possible workforce. Its position at the heart of the metropolitan transport system, proximity to major research institutions and many lifestyle benefits make it the best place to attract and retain skilled staff.

There are significant opportunities to interact with other IT firms, through industry networking events or informally in the City’s many coffee houses and bars. Add to this the largest range of commercial accommodation in the state at very competitive rentals, and the case for locating an IT business in the City is compelling.

Fast Facts

● High capacity telecommunications systems
● Lifestyle elements attract knowledge workers
● Innovation through collaboration

Links

● AIMIA

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