The National Industry Innovation Network (NIIN) is an industry-led collaboration designed to strengthen Australia's digital innovation capability by connecting universities, industry partners, and government organisations.
Despite strong research performance, Australia historically ranks low among OECD countries in industry–research collaboration. NIIN was established to address this challenge by creating a practical and scalable framework for collaboration.
The network supports innovation across multiple sectors by enabling:
- industry–university partnerships
- applied research initiatives
- digital skills development
- collaborative innovation projects
By bringing together expertise from academia, industry, and government, NIIN aims to accelerate digital innovation and deliver measurable economic and societal impact.
Leadership and Governance
Professor John Dewar
NIIN Chair
Professor John Dewar provides strategic leadership to the NIIN Advisory Council and oversees the network’s long-term direction. He plays a key role in representing NIIN externally and strengthening partnerships that support digital innovation in Australia.
Reg Johnson
Director, Education and Strategic Industries ANZ, Cisco
NIIN Director
Reg is the Founder and Director, Education & Strategic Industries
Cisco ANZ. He founded the National Industry Innovation Network and leads its vision to strengthen industry–university collaboration in Australia. He focuses on developing strategic partnerships, delivering innovation projects, and addressing national challenges through digital technologies.
NIIN Advisory Council
These leaders contribute expertise from industry, technology, and academia to guide NIIN’s strategic direction.
Professor Deborah Terry
Vice-Chancellor and President University of Queensland
Professor Alec Cameron
Vice-Chancellor, RMIT University
Professor Harlene Hayne
Vice-Chancellor, Curtin University
Karen Stocks
Former Vice President Global Measurement & Audience Solutions Google
Stefan Leitl
Vice President, Cisco Australia and New Zealand
Adam Powick
Former CEO, Deloitte Australia
Kate Burleigh
Former Country Manager Amazon Alexa and Devices ANZ
NIIN Economic Impact
NIIN Operating Model
To ensure accountability, coordination, and collaboration across the network, NIIN operates through a governance structure that includes:
Advisory Council
Strategic leadership and oversight.
NIIN Leadership Team
Responsible for operational delivery and program execution.
Advisory Committees
Specialised committees that support initiatives such as the Research Chair Program, Innovation Centres, and NIIN alliances.
NIIN Footprint
The NIIN network spans multiple universities and industry partners across Australia and internationally.
Key locations include:
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Melbourne
- Sydney
- Canberra
- Brisbane
- Sunshine Coast
- Singapore
These locations host innovation centres, research chairs, and collaborative initiatives that support national and international partnerships.
