The University of Melbourne’s new Creator Space is a 1,138m2 onsite fabrication laboratory designed to support open innovation and prototyping among the precinct’s community.

Creator Space will be a place where students, researchers, MC tenants and industry partners can work together to create innovative solutions. Here students will make connections that will give their careers a head start whether it be in research, industry or entrepreneurship.

Engagement

Programs to link curriculum to Creator Space will be developed in conjunction with teaching staff, with key stakeholder consultations beginning in early January.

Equipment

The space will offer 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, soldering irons, and power tools –including access to expert operators on site to guide the use of all metal, electronic and woodwork equipment.

_{Dean Mark Cassidy gives QinetiQ Managing Director Greg Barsby a tour of Creator Space.}

Creator Space Operations 

After a rigorous procurement process we are excited to announce that QinetiQ have been selected as the third-party operator of Creator Space.  They are a world-centre of excellence in research and development, and act as catalyst for fast-track innovation, offering outstanding services to manage experimentation facilities, technical, engineering and scientific expertise.

Representatives from the project management team undertook a series of site visits to workshops around Australia and New Zealand including the CSIRO (VIC), SNEPO (NSW), Space Tank (VIC), The Edge (QLD),  QUT (QLD), and Unleash (Auckland) before opening up an EOI process. Out of the EOIs, three organisations were shortlisted and invited to pitch to the University.  QinetiQ was then selected as the preferred bidder.