Swinburne partners with Latrobe City Council to propel Victoria’s Advanced Air Mobility precinct

Swinburne University of Technology has become the first Foundation Member of the newly established Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct at Latrobe Regional Airport, Gippsland, Victoria.

Launched by Harriet Shing MP, Member for Eastern Victoria, the Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct is dedicated to pioneering the future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), fostering economic growth and underpinning sustainable innovation opportunities for Australia.

Swinburne, with its renowned expertise in aviation and flight research, is the first university to join the precinct through a renewed partnership with Latrobe City Council.

Swinburne’s Aerostructures Innovation Research (AIR) Hub, will play a pivotal role in the precinct, bringing expertise in next-generation aerostructures for civil aviation, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, uncrewed air systems, AAM and space exploration.

The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct marks a significant milestone in the development of AAM opportunities within the region and positions Victoria as a leader on the national and global stage in aerospace innovation.

"Swinburne exemplifies a new model of university, characterised by deep industry partnerships. Our involvement as a foundation member of the Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct at Latrobe Regional Airport enables us to contribute significantly to the AAM future of the Gippsland region and to establish Victoria as a global leader in the sector," said Dr Adriano Di Pietro, Director of Swinburne’s AIR Hub.

The partnership will help support the creation of new industries for Gippsland, generate employment outcomes and accelerate the advancement of AAM sector technologies.

"The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct is an opportunity to position Latrobe Regional Airport at the forefront of the emerging aviation sector, diversifying the airport's capabilities and fostering investment and employment opportunities," said Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe.

The development of AAM is crucial for tackling climate change, supporting the decarbonisation of transport and logistics, and advancing towards a zero-emission economy. The use of green hydrogen drones, for example, promises to revolutionise logistics and service delivery in regional areas, enhancing safety while reducing time, cost and environmental impact.

The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct at Latrobe Regional Airport is located in Morwell and is owned by Latrobe City Council.