Da Nang strengthens cooperation with Australia’s Sydney in science, technology, and investment
DNO - On November 2, a delegation from Da Nang, led by Deputy Secretary of the municipal Party Committee Ngo Xuan Thang, held meetings with universities, research organizations, businesses, the New South Wales State Government, and the Consulate General of Vietnam in Sydney, Australia.
Promoting research and training cooperation
On November 2, the Da Nang delegation visited the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
Both sides discussed the training of high-quality human resources, applied research, technology transfer, and the development of partnerships between the university and businesses.
Deputy Secretary Ngo Xuan Thang outlined Da Nang's vision of becoming a center for science, technology, innovation and digital transformation, with priority given to artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor technology, digital technologies and automation.
UTS representatives shared their experience in working with Vietnamese authorities, businesses and educational institutions. They also highlighted the importance of research that addresses practical needs, delivers applicable solutions and creates value or the community.
During the discussions, the parties explored potential research projects in digital technology, smart management, technology transfer and engineering training.
Notably, the Da Nang Specific Economic Zones Authority (DSEZA) and UTS signed a working memorandum in May 2026, laying the groundwork for further cooperation in research and development (R&D), as well as connections between experts and businesses.
Both sides are currently considering new proposals based on their respective needs and practical implementation conditions.
At UTS, the Da Nang delegation attended a seminar titled “Da Nang - Australia Nexus: Advancing International Partnerships”.
The event attracted 60 representatives from government agencies, universities, research institutes, and businesses.
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The event was attended by Vietnamese Consul General in Sydney Nguyen Thanh Tung, representatives of UTS, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Macquarie University, the business community and Australian research and innovation organizations.
In her remarks at the event, Dr. Alana Piper, Deputy Vice Chancellor, External Engagement & Partnerships, highlighted the effectiveness of the collaboration model involving government, universities and businesses in translating knowledge into practical solutions.
UTS representatives shared several examples of cooperation with Vietnam, including research into marine environmental monitoring and the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) combined with AI in search and rescue operations.
Consul General Nguyen Thanh Tung noted that the Vietnam - Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership created favorable conditions for expanding cooperation in research, technology workforce training and connections between the two countries' business communities and experts.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee Ho Quang Buu said the city has been prioritizing the development of AI, semiconductor technology, big data, automation, data centers and green technology.
The city also seeks to connect with Australian universities, research institutes and businesses to promote expert training, applied research and technology transfer.
Representatives from the municipal Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Science and Technology introduced the city’s potential, as well as incentive policies supporting strategic technology development and new growth drivers.
Meanwhile, representatives of Australian research groups and businesses discussed the potential applications of UAVs in economic activities, management and services.
They also introduced AI platform development initiatives for data processing and analysis, with particular attention to privacy and data security.
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Representatives of the Vietnamese business community in Sydney expressed their strong interest in long-term cooperation in technology, education, finance and tourism.
A company operating in the clean energy sector also discussed the possibility of exploring the business environment and developing technical operations in Da Nang.
Concluding the seminar, Deputy Secretary Ngo Xuan Thang outlined three key areas for cooperation: developing strategic technologies, infrastructure and an innovation ecosystem; promoting investment connections, technology transfer, expert exchanges and high-quality workforce training; and advancing green technology, clean energy, smart grids and the circular economy.
He also called on partners to continue direct discussions to clarify needs, contact points, implementation conditions and programs with potential for practical implementation.
Exploring UTS Rapido: Turning research into practical applications
Following the discussion, the city’s delegation explored UTS Rapido, a research and development (R&D) unit within the UTS.
The model is designed to connect the expertise of scientists and engineers with businesses' technology needs. It helps translate research findings into practical products through design, prototyping, testing, technical validation and product refinement.
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Rapido representatives introduced their project-based operating model, which brings together mechatronics and software engineers, product designers, researchers and technical managers.
A notable feature of the model is that research activities are closely aligned with specific technical requirements, deadlines and practical applications, rather than focusing solely on academic results.
The Da Nang delegation was introduced to a project using machine learning, satellite imagery and UAVs to monitor different stages of grapevine growth.
Through the Rapido model, the delegation examined mechanisms for connecting businesses with universities, identifying research requirements, managing R&D projects and supporting the commercialization of research outcomes.
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Expanding cooperation with the New South Wales State government
When receiving the Da Nang delegation on November 2, Ms. Rebecca McPhee, Deputy Secretary of Investment NSW under the Premier’s Department, affirmed that New South Wales (NSW), attached importance to its relationship with Vietnam across government, business, education, science and technology.
The NSW Trade and Investment Strategy to 2035 identifies Vietnam as a priority market, creating favorable conditions for stronger connections with Da Nang.
For his part, Deputy Secretary Ngo Xuan Thang highlighted the city’s advantages in terms of geographical location, seaport and aviation infrastructure, logistics, high-tech industries, tourism, heritage and human resources.
He also called on NSW to facilitate connections and explore the possibility of establishing formal cooperation relations between Da Nang and Sydney.
Investment NSW representatives introduced the NSW Innovation Blueprint 2035, which is built around five pillars: strategic direction, capital, innovation spaces, talent and ecosystem connectivity.
In education, Investment NSW highlighted its alumni network and suggested organizing networking activities in Da Nang.
Visit to the Consulate General of Vietnam in Sydney
Following the meeting with Investment NSW, the Da Nang delegation visited the Consulate General of Vietnam in Sydney.
Vietnamese Consul General in Sydney Nguyen Thanh Tung shared insights into Vietnam - Australia cooperation, international education, urban management and partner networking.
On behalf of the delegation, Mr. Ngo Xuan Thang thanked Consul General Nguyen Thanh Tung and the Consulate General’s staff for their continued support of the city's diplomatic activities and partner networking efforts.
He added the working program in Sydney on November 2 helped establish further connections between Da Nang and educational institutions, research groups, businesses, investment promotion agencies and diplomatic representatives.