Deakin University

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Deakin University is a trusted partner in advancing Australia’s defence, security, and national resilience. We deliver integrated capabilities across advanced materials, robotics, autonomous systems, cyber security, AI, digital twins, and human performance. Working with the Australian Defence Force, industry leaders, government agencies, and international allies, we tackle complex challenges from capability development to operational readiness. Our multidisciplinary expertise supports the design, testing, and deployment of innovative solutions that enhance national security, address emerging threats, and strengthen regional stability. Guided by ethical principles, we translate cutting-edge research into real-world impact for defence and national security missions.

PRODUCTS

Advanced Materials & Manufacturing – Lightweight armour, corrosionresistant alloys, additive manufacturing, and composites for defence platforms and infrastructure
Autonomous & Robotic Systems – Land, sea, and air unmanned platforms; human–machine teaming; AI-enabled autonomy for surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics
Cyber Security & AI Solutions – Threat detection, cyber resilience frameworks, AI-driven decision support, and secure communications
Modelling, Simulation & Digital Twins – Operational modelling, mission rehearsal environments, synthetic training systems, and lifecycle optimisation tools • Human Performance & Resilience – Immersive training, cognitive readiness programs, and wearable sensing for health and safety
Defence Policy & Strategy Expertise – Strategic foresight, policy analysis, and frameworks to align technology adoption with national security objectives
Test & Evaluation Facilities – Accredited labs, proving grounds, and simulation environments for concept validation and TRL advancement
Climate & Energy Solutions – Resilient infrastructure, sustainable energy systems, and operational capability under extreme environmental conditions
Partnership & Co-Development Models – Flexible IP frameworks, industry–university collaboration pathways, and sovereign capability development programs

DISCRIMINATORS

Integrated Capability Portfolio: From fundamental research to TRL 9 deployment, covering technology, policy, and workforce skilling.
Proven Defence Partnerships: Track record with ADF, primes, SMEs, and international allies on mission-critical programs.
Unique Test & Evaluation Ecosystem: Access to world-class labs, proving grounds, and digital twin environments at Deakin’s Waurn Ponds Future Economy Precinct.
Operationally Relevant Solutions: Co-designed with end-users to meet real-world defence and security challenges.
Ethical & Secure Research Environment: DISP-accredited, DSPF-compliant, with robust foreign interference and export control processes.
Regional Advantage: Strategic location combining metropolitan access with large-scale, unconstrained testing environments.
Innovation Translation Track Record: Successful spin-outs (e.g., FLAIM Systems, Raider Targetry) delivering commercialised defence capability.
Multidisciplinary Expertise: Combining engineering, materials science, AI, cyber, human performance, and strategic policy under one organisation.

AVAILABILITY AND SUPPORT

Availability: Deakin’s defence, security, and resilience capabilities are available now, with projects spanning TRL 1–9. Rapid mobilisation is supported through established research teams, accredited facilities, and industry partnerships.
Lead Times: Engagement timelines vary depending on project scope; rapid prototyping and short-turnaround feasibility studies are possible for urgent operational needs.
Support Model: Full through-life support from concept to sustainment, including test and evaluation, technology integration, training, and continuous improvement cycles.
Regional & Global Reach: Capability delivery across Australia, with collaboration pathways for international partners and AUKUS-aligned projects.
Sustainment & Knowledge Transfer: Embedded training, documentation, and workforce development ensure enduring capability beyond project completion.
Secure Operations: DISP membership, Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF) compliance, and export control processes in place to safeguard sensitive programs.

KEY CUSTOMERS

Australian Defence Force (Army, Navy, Air Force)
Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) (Australia)
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) (Australia)
United States Deparment of Defense
Emergency Service organisations globally
Boeing
Thales
Rheinmetall
Leidos
BAE Systems
Lockheed Martin
Ford

Key Partnerships (Consulting)

Education supplier to Australia’s Premier military college (The Australian War College)

QUALITY ACCREDITATIONS AND AWARDS

Defence Industry Security Program (DISP) (Australia)
Defence Security Principles Framework (DSPF) – Compliant (Australia)
National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) Accreditation

Contact Details

Name: Dr James Mullins AM
Position: Director, Defence and Security
Phone: +61 425 829 568
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.deakin.edu.au/
Address: 75 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia

Name: Andrew Bottrell AO
Position: Chair Defence & Security Capabilities
Phone: +61 3 5227 2445
Email: [email protected]