Australia-Vietnam Strategic Technology Center launched in Hanoi

THE HANOI TIMES — The launch of Australia–Vietnam Strategic Technology Center (AVSTC) in Hanoi on June 11 marked a new phase of cooperation in digital transformation, strategic technologies, and innovation.

Located at the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT), the center was established through a collaboration between Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology and Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It is operated in partnership with Nokia and the University of Technology Sydney, with the firm providing technical equipment.

Australia has committed an initial $1.4 million to support the center.

According to Bui The Duy, Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, the cooperation fits with the 2025–2030 Development Partnership Plan and demonstrates both countries’ dedication to innovation and cybersecurity development.

Duy said that Vietnam is amending its 2013 Law on Science and Technology to implement the Politburo's Resolution 57 on advancing science and technology. The revised law recognizes innovation as a core driver of development, alongside science and technology. It shifts the focus from input-based to results-based management and grants more autonomy to researchers and businesses.

Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Gillian Bird said the center represents a practical step in turning joint policy commitments into concrete outcomes. “By supporting research collaboration and connecting education and science institutions, we aim to deliver measurable progress under Resolution 57,” she said.

At the launch, the two governments announced eight joint research projects worth more than $270,000 in seed funding. The projects focus on artificial intelligence, quantum technology, satellite systems, and cybersecurity and involve collaboration between universities, research institutions, and enterprises in both countries.

The center also awarded nearly 100 scholarships to young Vietnamese technology professionals and honored 19 women in science and innovation in collaboration with the Vietnam Women Entrepreneurs Council.

Following the launch, the Australia–Vietnam Strategic Tech Forum was held, featuring domestic and international experts who covered topics such as 5G and 6G networks, AI governance, non-terrestrial infrastructure, quantum applications, and digital security.