The Queensland Government has announced $2.75 million in funding to establish a National Indigenous Science Translation Centre (NISTC).

The Centre, located at the University of Queensland's Long Pocket campus, will be led by Indjalandji-Dhidhanu people in partnership with the University of Queensland and the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology.

It will function as a combined teaching, research and development facility, designed to promote Indigenous knowledge, foster innovation and support Indigenous-owned businesses.

Indjalandji-Dhidhanu man and NISTC chairperson, Colin Saltmere, said the Centre would create significant opportunities for Indigenous Australians through collaboration and scientific advancement.

"The National Indigenous Science Translation Centre (NISTC) would not be possible without the Queensland Government and the University of Queensland's critical support," said Mr Saltmere.

"We look forward to working with Indigenous groups and industry in creating employment, education, business, and local manufacturing opportunities for Indigenous Australians through advancing scientific research and innovation, utilising traditional knowledge and intellectual property to develop commercial products."

Indjalandji-Dhidhanu man and Bulugudu Ltd director, Joel Saltmere, welcomed the funding commitment and the opportunities it would bring.

"We look forward to continuing our partnership with the University of Queensland and working with other Indigenous groups through the NISTC," Mr Saltmere said.

"This investment will connect the oldest living culture with modern science to create economic opportunities securing a better future for Indigenous Australians."

The Queensland Government's $2.75 million investment will be provided over four years, from 2024 to 2028, to support the Centre's establishment and operations.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Science and Innovation, Andrew Powell, said the initiative would connect Queensland's thriving biotech sector with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

"Using their unique understanding of Queensland's plants and animals, there are great opportunities to be realised," Mr Powell said.

"The Indjalandji-Dhidhanu people, working with their partners, are already developing gels using cellulose nanofibres extracted from Spinifex grass.

"I am excited about the potential for further medical and agricultural applications from this initial project and look forward to seeing these successes realised when the Centre opens in the new year."

The Centre is scheduled to open in 2025, with buildings provided in-kind by the University of Queensland.

It aims to bridge traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern science to drive innovation and economic growth.