Australia’s First Hydrogen Innovation Hub Ignites a Clean Energy Future

A groundbreaking hydrogen facility has officially opened at Deakin University’s Warrnambool campus. The Hycel Technology Hub, the first of its kind in Australia, is designed to facilitate research, demonstration, testing, and training in hydrogen technologies. Strategically located along an interstate transport corridor, the hub connects industries, communities, and resources while being part of the Victorian Renewable Energy Zone.

The Hycel Technology Hub received significant funding, with the Victorian Government contributing $9 million through the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, and an additional $9 million coming from the Federal Government. Deakin University also made substantial contributions, demonstrating the importance of hydrogen to Victoria’s renewable energy goals.

The Hycel Technology Hub is a 4.5-hectare precinct, co-located with South West TAFE, and includes advanced research facilities. The hub houses a new product engineering development laboratory, three laboratory bays, and specialized equipment, including the G400 fuel cell stack testing station—the only one of its kind in Australia. The building also has plumbed-in low- and high-pressure hydrogen lines for its laboratories, enhancing hydrogen research capabilities.

The project is expected to support up to 200 jobs in regional Victoria, including around 50 construction jobs and 16 roles in the energy sector. These opportunities will boost local employment while advancing Australia’s clean energy transition through hydrogen technology development.

The Hycel Technology Hub will focus on developing fuel cells for transport, heavy vehicles, trains, and boats. Professor Tiffany Walsh, Director of Hycel, emphasized the hub’s role in driving hydrogen adoption and creating new market opportunities. The facility provides hands-on, real-world experience to support hydrogen’s integration into Australia’s clean energy future.

Deakin University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Iain Martin, highlighted the university’s commitment to advancing clean energy technologies. The Hycel Technology Hub represents over $20 million in hydrogen investments, marking Deakin’s ongoing dedication to hydrogen research and development in regional Victoria.

In partnership with Engineers Australia and Engineering Education Australia (EEA), Deakin University will launch a suite of hydrogen energy micro-credentials to address the talent shortage in the hydrogen engineering sector. This initiative aims to upskill the engineering workforce with specialized training, including:

• Handling Hydrogen for Engineers

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell Operation, Safety, and Maintenance

• Hydrogen Electrolysers

• Hydrogen in the Built Environment

• Hydrogen and Social Responsibility for Engineers (Webinar)

Head of EEA, Joel Evans, pointed out that Australia faces a severe talent shortage in hydrogen engineering, which could hinder progress toward the nation’s net-zero goals. The micro-credentials, developed through research initiated by Hycel, are designed to equip engineers with the skills necessary to support hydrogen adoption in various sectors, including energy, transport, and water.

Professor Walsh said Deakin is excited to partner with EEA to offer industry-focused education. The hydrogen micro-credentials will ensure engineers can confidently design, build, and operate hydrogen systems, enhancing Australia’s ability to lead the world in clean energy technologies.

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