The NSW Department of State and Regional Development (DSRD) has announced the launch of Embedded Systems Australia (ESA), a joint venture aimed at fostering the development of local embedded computer systems for local and export markets.

ESA was formed by the DSRD, National ICT Australia (NICTA), the Australian Electronics and Electrical Manufacturers Association (AEEMA), and the Warren Centre for Engineering at the University of Sydney.

ESA's steering committee includes representatives from Microsoft, Cochlear, Canon Information Systems Research Australia (CISRA), iTech Corporation, ResMed, BCS innovations, Sinclair Knight Merz, Machinery Automation & Robotics, and Invetech.

NSW minister for state development Ian Macdonald said the state already has a strong and vibrant embedded systems technology sector but the launch of ESA in Sydney will help develop expertise and promote further growth.

"Embedded Systems Australia is expected to become the largest initiative of its kind in Australia and the Asia Pacific region," Macdonald said.

"It will identify and develop NSW's and Australia's capabilities in embedded systems design, development and use, and help create a cluster of export competitive companies working in embedded systems technologies."

According to Macdonald, ESA has already identified more than 400 NSW businesses that are developing embedded systems applications, and has developed an agreement for collaboration on technology projects.

NICTA chief technology officer and chair of ESA, Dr Chris Nicol, said the local embedded systems industry will add value to many industry sectors.

"Through this cluster, Australian companies can play a major role in the growth of an emerging global industry," Dr Nicol said. "We aim to foster innovation across the industry, identify new business opportunities, and launch collaborative projects that showcase Australian capability to international markets."