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Melbourne-based Monash University has unveiled the development of Australia’s first advanced AI supercomputer, as part of a partnership with Dell Technologies, NVIDIA, and CDC Data Centres.
Powered by the NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 platform, Australia’s first higher education AI supercomputer, MAVERIC, is being developed with the intention of improving the nation’s sovereign AI capabilities.
“We want our people – Monash academics, students and our research partners – to be at the forefront of shaping the future of AI; not just in how it’s applied, but in unlocking entirely new possibilities and innovations,” said vice-chancellor and president of Monash University, Professor Sharon Pickering.
“Our focus is on solving real problems and putting AI to work in a meaningful way – from breakthroughs in cancer detection to redefining what’s possible in preserving the health of our planet for future generations.”
MAVERIC will bolster AI innovation across a range of research industries, including the private sector, government, academia and more.
The NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 platform will be integrated using Dell Technologies Rack Scalable Systems, such as PowerEdge XE912 servers and the IR7000 rack, placing Monash at the front of Australian AI innovation.
“For almost two decades, Dell Technologies has collaborated with Monash University on innovative technology solutions that allow research projects to reach their full potential,” said the senior vice president and managing director for Dell Technologies ANZ, Angela Fox.
“MAVERIC’s AI capabilities, run on Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA, will allow the university to participate in the fight against some of humanity’s biggest challenges, including disease and environmental science.
“To do so while boosting Australia’s sovereign AI capabilities is a win for the research community and a win for Australia.”
MAVERIC will also pioneer energy efficiency within the AI innovation sector, harnessing the benefits of the NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 platform, which boasts 300 times more efficient water usage compared to typical data centres, thanks to a closed-loop liquid cooling system.
Additionally, CDC facilities are designed with a zero-water consumption goal for primary cooling.
“This is a great example of how CDC’s next-generation liquid cooling technology is helping transform the digital infrastructure of the research and education sector,” said Greg Boorer, CEO and Founder of CDC.
“CDC is proud to support the advancement of Australian research through the hosting of Monash University’s supercomputer MAVERIC.
“This partnership is a significant step forward in our mission to support the nation’s most critical organisations and institutions in driving the continued prosperity of Australia in an environmentally conscious and sustainable way.”
MAVERIC’s construction is set to begin this year, with plans to be launched early 2026.
“I welcome this collaboration between a great research institution and leading technology companies. I met with NVIDIA … and they were excited about the prospect of this tech platform being deployed in Australia for the first time,” said Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy, Dr Andrew Charlton.
“If Australia is going to stay at the cutting edge of research, we need to make sure we are accessing the best technology possible.
“This will be key to unlocking growth and productivity in Australia, and ensure Australian researchers continue to be among the best in the world.”
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