Surveying, GIS Tech Boost For Flinders
A significant contribution in South Australia by global technology company Trimble will build new capacity into the research and education opportunities at Flinders University.
For the first time at any Australian university, a state-of-the-art Geospatial Trimble Technology Laboratory will support future graduates and professionals studying degrees in surveying, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) geospatial and urban planning.
“The opening of the new Trimble Technology Lab, co-sponsored by Trimble’s authorised distribution partner UPG, will support Flinders University’s new Bachelor of Surveying and Bachelor of Geospatial Information Systems programs,” says Flinders University Professor Alistair Rendell, Vice-President and Executive Dean of the College of Science and Engineering.
Trimble and UPG have been working together since 1992 to bring cutting-edge technology and innovation to Australia, helping organisations remain at the forefront of gathering, analysing and utilising geospatial data.
“Technology is constantly changing and this donation means our course curriculum will include real-world examples of the latest trends in GIS, surveying and urban planning, in addition to other technology advancements in the future,” says Professor Rendell.
Flinders is the only university in South Australia to offer a degree in GIS and Surveying. The four-year double degree program, that launched in 2024, combines comprehensive training in GIS and surveying, equipping graduates with the skills needed to enter into a training agreement to become licensed surveyors.
The Trimble Technology Lab at Flinders University will provide academics, students and researchers with access to cutting-edge technology across three key areas: GNSS Solutions, Positioning Solutions, and Software Solutions.
The laboratory will provide hands-on experience for students to become job-ready, using the tech skills most sought after by industry and government.
“Our students and researchers look forward to making use of these new Trimble systems, which will put our courses at the forefront,” says Professor Rendell.
“It means our graduates will be well prepared to become licensed surveyors and GIS professionals – while also building our research capabilities.
“This collaboration with Trimble not only enhances the educational experience for students but also positions Flinders as a leader in geospatial and surveying education and research in Australia.”
Flinders joins a network of over 32 universities around the world that host Trimble Technology Labs, many of which specialise in GIS teaching and research.
About Trimble
https://news.flinders.edu.au/blog/2025/08/22/surveying-gis-tech-boost-for-flinders/