Date: 18 August 2026 Australia’s transition to a net-zero economy has received a significant boost with the launch of NØBEL, the ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for digital platforms in the Net-Zero Building Ecosystem Lifecycle, led by Western Sydney University. Attendees at the official NØBEL launch. ARC Deputy Chief Executive Officer Mr Anthony Murfett joined researchers, industry leaders and government representatives at the launch, celebrating a major collaboration focused on transforming one of Australia’s most important industries – the built environment. Buildings and construction account for a substantial share of Australia’s carbon emissions. NØBEL has been established to help address this challenge by developing innovative digital technologies and platforms that make net-zero construction practical, scalable and commercially viable. Bringing research, industry and government together NØBEL’s work spans the entire building lifecycle from design and planning, through construction and operation, to renewal, reuse and recycling. By connecting research with industry needs, NØBEL will help accelerate the adoption of sustainable building practices across Australia. ARC DCEO Mr Anthony Murfett speaking at the official NØBEL Launch. The Centre’s research is focused on delivering practical outcomes that support Australia’s net-zero ambitions while creating new opportunities for industry. “NØBEL represents exactly the kind of ambitious, industry-relevant research collaboration that the ARC’s Industrial Transformation Training Centre program is designed to support,” Mr Murfett said. “Bringing together researchers, industry and government will help accelerate the development of practical solutions for Australia's transition to a net-zero future." One key research area involves developing technologies that transform demolished concrete into high-quality recycled building materials. This work has the potential to reduce construction waste sent to landfill, support circular economy outcomes and lower the carbon footprint of future construction projects. Researchers are also creating advanced digital platforms that use artificial intelligence, sensors and data analytics to monitor and improve building performance throughout their lifecycle. These tools will help reduce emissions, lower maintenance costs and support smarter decision-making for building owners and operators. Training the workforce of the future A major focus of NØBEL is developing the people and skills needed to support Australia’s transition to a low-carbon economy. The Centre has already commenced training future research leaders through 7 PhD scholarships and 2 postdoctoral research positions. These researchers will work closely with industry partners, gaining practical experience while contributing to solutions for real-world challenges. By combining research excellence with industry engagement, NØBEL is helping build the skilled workforce needed to advance sustainable, digital and circular construction practices across Australia. Attendees at the official NØBEL Launch. Benefits for Australian communities While the Centre’s research is focused on the construction sector, the benefits are expected to be felt broadly across the community. For Australian households, success could mean more comfortable and energy-efficient homes, lower energy bills, reduced waste and buildings that are better prepared for future environmental challenges. For industry, it creates opportunities to improve productivity, adopt new technologies and compete in the growing global market for sustainable construction. As Australia works towards its net-zero emissions goals, NØBEL is helping ensure the nation has the research capability, industry partnerships and skilled workforce required to build a more sustainable and prosperous future. Read more about NØBEL on their website.