RMIT launches Cloud Innovation Lab powered by Amazon Web Services

RMIT launches Cloud Innovation Lab powered by Amazon Web Services

RMIT has launched the RMIT AWS Innovation Lab (RAIL), powered by Amazon Web Services, in a landmark strategic collaboration designed to accelerate clinical research and public health, drive digital innovation and strengthen industry partnerships.

The establishment of RAIL makes RMIT the first university in Australia to have a dedicated AWS Cloud Innovation Lab. 

This strategic collaboration builds on the success of the RMIT Advanced Cloud Ecosystem (RACE) Hub and expands the university’s capability to deliver cutting‑edge cloud and AI enabled research, rapid prototyping and scalable digital solutions for industry, government and the education sector.

Louise Stigwood, Managing Director of Public Sector, AWS, shared their excitement about the opportunities brought to the Australian research community through the AWS strategic collaboration with RMIT. 

“We believe that collaboration between industry, education and government is critical to help Australia build our national capability for success on the global stage. The new RMIT AWS Innovation Lab will equip local researchers, students and partners with industry leading AWS technology in pursuit of addressing some of Australia’s biggest social challenges. From the new RAIL to our locally developed AI K-12 Education Program, AWS is committed to equipping Australians with the right tools and support to help them thrive in a digital future,” said Stigwood.

Professor Alec Cameron and AWS General Manager, Valerie Singer unveil a plaque together.(L-R) Valerie Singer, General Manager of Global Education, AWS with Professor Alec Cameron, RMIT Vice-Chancellor and President

Valerie Singer, General Manager of Global Education, AWS, acknowledged that the new lab will drive impact across Australia. 

“The RMIT AWS Innovation Lab strengthens Australia's digital research infrastructure and creates a powerful ecosystem where researchers, students, and industry can collaborate using advanced cloud technologies. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to building AI-ready capabilities that drive economic and societal impact across Australia,” said Singer. 

Strengthening Australia’s digital research ecosystem

The establishment of RAIL aligns with the Commonwealth Government’s National Research Infrastructure Roadmap, supporting priorities around secure data, open collaboration, and digital and translational research capability. 

RMIT Deputy Vice‑Chancellor Research & Innovation, Distinguished Professor Calum Drummond AO, said the partnership represents a significant step forward in national research translation. 

“The RMIT AWS Innovation Lab strengthens Australia’s digital research infrastructure and accelerates our ability to transform world‑class research into economic, societal and environmental impact. By combining RMIT’s research excellence with AWS’s leading cloud and AI capabilities, we are creating new opportunities for innovation that will benefit industry, government and the wider community,” Drummond said. 

Professor Calum Drummond speaks behind a lectern, smiling at the crowd.RMIT Deputy Vice‑Chancellor Research & Innovation, Distinguished Professor Calum Drummond AO

New capability for Australia

RAIL will provide researchers, students and external partners with access to advanced AWS cloud technologies, AI and data services, specialised training programs and hands-on project support. 

The collaborative environment is designed to shorten the pathway from research concepts to deployed solutions by bringing together cloud specialists, research experts, and structured innovation processes. 

RAIL will initially focus on four core research themes aligned to national priorities and emerging industry needs:  

  • digital health 
  • connected futures
  • aerospace, security and resilience  
  • public sector innovation 

What’s next

The RMIT AWS Innovation Lab will begin working with research teams and partners from mid-2026, with a program of innovation challenges and training opportunities to be announced throughout the year. 

For more information about RAIL and how to engage with the Lab, visit https://www.rmit.edu.au/partner/hubs/rail 

 

Story: Finn Devlin

22 April 2026

Share

Return to RMIT News
22 April 2026

Share

  • Research
  • AI
  • Business
  • Announcements
  • Science and technology
  • Future World of Work
Engage

Related News

neville-quarry-aep-christine-image1-1220x732px.jpg

RMIT Associate Professor awarded 2026 Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize

The Australian Institute of Architects has recognised RMIT Associate Professor Christine Phillips for her outstanding contribution to architectural education.

Group photo of the research team.

Immune system overreaction linked to deadly flu in pregnancy

Researchers have discovered why influenza can lead to life-threatening complications during pregnancy, as Australia prepares for the flu season.

pavement-print-mdw-banner-1440x150.jpg

Pavement Print Studio: meet the RMIT students taking their screen-printing studio to Melbourne Design Week

A student-led mobile printmaking studio, born from RMIT's Associate Degree in Graphic Design, has been accepted into Melbourne Design Week 2026.

Honorary doctorate receiving their testatmur at the Doctoral Degrees Graduation Ceremony.

Respected African Australian community leader receives RMIT honorary doctorate

RMIT University has recognised widely respected community leader and mental health clinician Selba-Gondoza Luka OAM with an honorary doctorate.

Show more
aboriginal flag float-starttorres strait flag float-start

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

More information