What are focus sectors?
NSW has identified 9 focus sectors to attract investment and grow trade. We encourage businesses to get in touch to explore how we can support their plans to invest and grow in NSW.
This page explores digital technologies and why they’re a priority for NSW.
Learn more about the state's priorities
The digital technologies sector at a glance
NSW has the largest technology workforce in Australia, expected to grow to 500,000 by 2030
NSW leads the nation in tech unicorns, with 28 more high-growth startups on the rise
Digital technologies add $67 billion annually to the NSW economy
NSW attracts more public and private artificial intelligence investment than any other state
Why digital technologies matter in NSW
NSW is Australia’s top-performing state in digital technology, supported by a large workforce, strong R&D capabilities and a diverse, tech-savvy customer base.
The state leads in AI investment – both public and private – and is home to global leaders such as Amazon Web Services and Macquarie Bank.
Agreements like the Australia–Singapore Digital Economy Agreement highlight growing demand for NSW-based digital solutions in global markets.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
NSW is home to:
- 45% of Australia’s AI companies
- 2 of the top 5 AI research universities
- 41% of the nation’s software and application developers.
Multinational firms such as Microsoft and AWS are investing heavily in AI infrastructure here, positioning NSW as a leader in AI innovation, adoption and talent.
Quantum technologies
NSW is a world leader in quantum science, particularly in encryption, simulation and commercialisation. Key strengths include:
- 4 of Australia’s top 5 quantum startups
- 4 of 8 top-ranked quantum universities
- Australia’s first major coordinated quantum training program: the Sydney Quantum Academy.
In 2024, BTQ Technologies (Canada) and Quantum Motion (UK) both established operations in Sydney’s Tech Central.
Smart cities and the Internet of Things
NSW supports innovation in:
- traffic management systems
- energy efficiency
- urban sustainability and resilience.
NSW-based firms are well positioned to export their smart city technologies to help meet global demand for smarter urban infrastructure.
Fintech
NSW is Australia’s fintech capital, home to:
- 64% of national fintech startups
- 65% of national fintech capital raised in 2024 ($947 million)
- A$45 billion in fintech sector value, up from A$250 million in 2015.
Sydney’s global financial sector supports innovation in digital payments, decentralised finance and blockchain.
Case study
WithYouWithMe
This NSW company is helping people from under-represented groups transition into tech careers.
How Investment NSW can help
We provide free support to businesses, including:
- market insights and intelligence
- connections to NSW Government programs
- advice on approval processes
- links to potential partners and locations
- coordination of familiarisation visits.
Get support
Looking to grow your business or invest in digital technologies?
Contact Investment NSW to discuss your goals and connect with our team.