NIIN Programs

NIIN Innovation Centrals provide collaborative environments where industry partners work with researchers and students to develop digital solutions.

Innovation Centre Directors

Innovation Central Canberra - Erin Stacey - University of Canberra
Innovation Central Brisbane - Gemma Alker - Queensland University of Technology
Innovation Central Melbourne - Jeff Jones - La Trobe University
Innovation Central Perth - Dan Marrable - Curtin University
Innovation Central Adelaide - Kathryn Anderson - Flinders University
Innovation Central Sydney - Ivan Chua - University of Technology Sydney
Innovation Central Singapore - Tom Goerke – Curtin University Singapore

These directors manage innovation programs and coordinate industry collaboration projects across the network.

The NIIN Research Chair Program supports leading academics working on emerging digital technologies.

Research Chairs

• Professor Wei Xiang, IoT and AI, La Trobe University
• Professor Frank den Hartog, Critical Infrastructure, University of Canberra
• Professor Trish Williams, Digital Health, Flinders University
• Dr Nadine Ostern, Trusted Retail, Queensland University of Technology
• Professor Marius Portmann, Network Security, University of Queensland
• Associate Professor Alison Craswell, Digital Health and Ageing, University of the Sunshine Coast
• Associate Professor Ilaria Barletta, Sustainable Engineering, University of Technology Sydney

These research chairs collaborate with industry partners to translate research into practical applications.

The Industry Alumni Program connects experienced technology professionals and former Cisco leaders with
NIIN initiatives.

Alumni contribute mentorship, technical expertise, and strategic guidance to innovation projects.

• Professor Andrew McLean, Professor of Practice, University of Technology Sydney
• Professor Richard Dodsworth, Professor of Practice, Flinders University
• Professor Rob De Nicolo, Professor of Practice, RMIT
• Professor Drago Sijan, Professor of Practice, La Trobe University

NIIN supports workforce development through programs that connect students with industry projects and digital training opportunities.

Initiatives include:

• Cisco Networking Academy training hubs
• student innovation projects
• industry internships and placements
• collaborative research programs

These initiatives help build a skilled workforce capable of supporting Australia's digital economy.