Westpac Sponsored Innovation and Coding
Join us in Westpac Hackathon by being a participant in our inaugural coding competition, an exciting new collaboration between Westpac Gold Coast Engineering Hub and Universities in Queensland. You can help us redefine the way banking is experienced!
Technology plays an important role in how banking is experienced now and in the future. Over 95 per cent of customer interactions are now done through digital channels such as Mobile Banking App and Internet Banking.
We are challenging participants to tackle a technical problem or develop innovative software solutions that address the evolving needs of the bank. In this open-world challenge, nothing is off limits, and we encourage you to think broadly about how tech can evolve how you and our customers interact with a bank.
- How can Emerging Technologies shape banking features?
- What role does AI play in simplifying banking?
- How can AR and VR change interactions with bank customers?
Whether it’s enhancing the customer-facing experience or developing novel new solutions, we encourage you to think outside of the box and explore new frontiers.
Both undergraduate and postgraduate students (including PhD students) are able to participate in the Westpac Hackathon.
Potential emerging technologies to explore
- Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR) Banking features
- Artificial Intelligence Banking features
- Quantum Computing
- Robotics and Automation
Important dates
- RSVP Deadline: 21 June 2024
- Hackathon: 4 - 5 July 2024
- Awards Ceremony: 9 July 2024
Please download the Westpac Hackathon Handbook below:
Westpac Hackathon Handbook (DOCX, 70.5 KB)
How it works
With support from mentors and experts, you will be challenged to identify ways to innovate and improve one or more aspects of the banking experience for customers by developing a functional prototype or application. Your solution should be user-friendly, secure, and demonstrate the potential to disrupt traditional banking services.
The hackathon will be conducted at The University of Queensland, St Lucia campus and online. Kick-off will be on campus and via a Microsoft Teams session on 4 July 2024. Shortlisted teams will get invited to the Awards Day to present their submissions in person on 9 July 2024 at the Westpac Gold Coast Engineering Hub.
Judging Criteria
- Innovation (25%)
- Technical Excellence (10%)
- Creativity (25%)
- Feasibility (20%)
- Impact (20%)
Prizes
Cash prizes:
- First place: $2,500 grand prize for the best idea and solution
- Second place: $1,000 for Creativity and Innovation
Other prizes:
- Prize pack for People's Choice Award
- Opportunity to spend a day with Westpac Engineers at the Westpac GC Engineering Hub
- Work placement/experience opportunity