Win free access to UWA’s world-leading ocean research facilities

The Ocean Innovation Challenge offers startups and small to medium enterprises the chance to access the
Coastal and Offshore Research Laboratory (CORL) or the National Geotechnical Centrifuge Facility (NGCF)
for one week of free testing.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to test their concepts with the support of UWA’s expert researchers and technicians, using facilities that can simulate a wide range of ocean and seabed conditions. CORL’s wave flume and award-winning O-Tube facility can be used to recreate coastal and offshore environments, while NGCF’s three geotechnical centrifuges can model surficial seabed to seabed layers extending over 100 m. All facilities are equipped with high-precision instruments for detailed measurement and analysis.

This initiative aims to increase awareness of UWA’s ocean research facilities and to support companies developing new ideas in renewable energy, coastal protection, ocean technologies and instrumentation, and related marine innovations.

How to apply

1. Read the Ocean Innovation Challenge flyer  for more information.
2. Download and complete the application form.
3. Submit your completed form to [email protected] before 5:00 pm, 31 October, 2025.
4. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present to a selection panel in late November.
5. Testing will commence at a date agreed from May 2026.

Selection criteria

- Level of innovation in your idea

- Feasibility of testing in our labs

- Potential impact of testing outcomes

UWA will establish a selection panel that will have sole discretion on the review and assessment of applications, and the determination of the successful submission.

As noted in the flyer, the successful applicant will need to enter into a contract Agreement and must be willing to work with the CORL and NGCF experts to complete a safety risk assessment prior to commencing the test program. All IP, liability and risk arising from the testing shall be allocated and held in accordance with the terms of the Agreement.