Australia's Quantum Computing Rise

Australian research has played a crucial role in Microsoft's development of a new quantum chip, named Majorana 1, marking a significant leap towards practical quantum computing. The chip is powered by a topoconductor, creating a new state of matter and enabling the potential to fit one million qubits on a single chip. This breakthrough allows for more stable and scalable qubits, overcoming limitations of current high-end chips.

The Majorana 1 chip, the result of nearly two decades of research, can accommodate eight topological qubits and is designed to scale to one million. This advancement could revolutionise industries by enabling solutions to complex problems currently impossible for even the most powerful supercomputers. Potential applications include breaking down microplastics and inventing self-healing materials.

Despite Microsoft consolidating its quantum research in the United States, Australian scientists continue to contribute to the field. The Australian government is also investing in local quantum technology companies, signalling the country's commitment to becoming a key player in the quantum computing landscape. This positions Australia to harness the transformative power of quantum computing while mitigating its risks, with profound implications for national security and technological advancement.