Australian National Fabrication Facility

The Australian National Fabrication Facility (ANFF) Optofab ACT node is a specialised research and fabrication hub situated within the Australian National University campus on Garran Road in Acton, Australian Capital Territory. It operates as a key part of a nationwide network of eight nodes, providing open access to state-of-the-art micro and nano fabrication capabilities for researchers, start-ups, and industrial clients. The facility’s mission focuses on delivering precision full custom optics, advanced optical coatings, integrated optics chips, and complete systems built to exact customer specifications with short lead times and competitive pricing.

Unlike a conventional equipment rental service, ANFF Optofab ACT functions as a dedicated service provider. Its expert team handles the entire fabrication process, guiding a project from initial design specifications through to the delivery of a finished component or subsystem. This model allows users to benefit from world-class technology without needing the highly specialised, long-term training typically required to operate such advanced tools. This approach has made it a vital resource for accelerating research, experimental setup, and product development cycles across Australia’s scientific and industrial landscape.

Core Fabrication Services at ANFF Optofab ACT

The facility’s capabilities are concentrated in three primary service areas, all underpinned by decades of combined staff expertise and cutting-edge instrumentation housed within the Laser Physics Centre at ANU.

Specialised Optical Coatings

Optical coatings form the core of ANFF Optofab ACT’s fully supported service. The node is a focal point for national coatings expertise, providing knowledge dissemination alongside hands-on fabrication. Using flagship tools like the Veeco Spector ion-beam sputtering (IBS) system, the team produces high-performance thin films with exceptional precision. Services cover a broad spectrum, including anti-reflective coatings, high-reflectivity mirrors, filter coatings, and bespoke multilayer designs for applications ranging from laser development to telecommunications and quantum optics.

Precision Full Custom Optics

Through diamond turning on a state-of-the-art Moore Nanotech UPL-250 lathe, the facility creates complex freeform optics, moulds, and precision metal components. This service is delivered as a partially subsidised, at-cost offering, making high-end custom optics accessible for research prototypes and low-volume industrial runs. The team’s proficiency with a wide range of materials, including crystals, metals, and specialty glasses, allows for the generation of optics with nanometric-level surface quality that would be impossible to procure through standard commercial vendors.

Integrated Optics Chips & Systems

ANFF Optofab ACT designs and fabricates planar integrated optical circuits, predominantly in chalcogenide glasses and other non-silicon materials. These chips enable complex photonic functions such as signal processing, sensing, and quantum information manipulation on a single compact device. The at-cost service includes photolithography, etching, and deposition, producing fully packaged, pigtailed chips ready for testing. The capability is closely linked with access to broader ANFF ACT node facilities, including a new ballroom cleanroom environment, for a complete hybrid integration solution.

Tools, Capabilities & Technical Resources

The facility’s instrument portfolio extends beyond its major coating and machining tools, providing a comprehensive environment for optical and photonic device prototyping. Access to a research IBS system, dedicated vacuum deposition systems for chalcogenide materials, and DC sputtering for metals enables versatile multi-material processing. Thin film characterisation is supported by a Filmtek 4000 spectrometer and ellipsometry measurement tools. For integrated optics, projection and contact lithography tools, ICP etching, and nanoimprint lithography are available, alongside a full suite of optical metrology systems for precise waveguide and component characterisation. The co-location with the ANFF ACT node and ANU’s Electronic Materials Engineering and Laser Physics Centre provides access to an extended toolset valued at over $200 million across the network.

Working with ANFF Optofab ACT

Engagement with the node is streamlined to minimise administrative and technical burden on the user. The typical workflow begins with a discussion to define full specifications, after which the ANFF team provides a quote and timeline. Instead of hourly tool hire, the facility operates on a project-delivery basis, operating much like a precision engineering firm within a university setting. The team, led by Node Manager A/Prof Steve Madden and Node Lead Technical Officer Sukanta Debbarma, provides consultation services to align project requirements with the most appropriate fabrication pathway. Bookings can be initiated via the facility’s website, and periodic updates and newsletters keep the user community informed of new capabilities and project success stories.

Location & Access in Acton, Australian Capital Territory

ANFF Optofab ACT is located within the Research School of Physics at The Australian National University, at the end of Garran Road in Acton, ACT 2601. The central campus location provides direct access to public transport links and is situated at the heart of Canberra’s research precinct. The facility operates within a university environment and offers flexible arrangement discussions via Zoom for remote project planning, an approach refined during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure continuity of support for national research projects. Operating hours are not specified publicly on Google Maps; prospective users should contact the node directly to schedule consultations, project discussions, or visits.

Common Questions

What services does ANFF Optofab ACT provide?

The node delivers custom optical coatings, diamond-turned optics, and integrated photonic chip fabrication. Services are provided on a project-delivery basis, meaning the ANFF team manufactures complete components or subsystems to a customer’s supplied specifications rather than renting out equipment for individual use.

How does the project delivery model work at ANFF Optofab ACT?

The facility acts as a full-service provider. After a client contacts the team with their requirements, the node provides a quote and an estimated timeline. The experienced technical staff then undertake the entire fabrication process, from design consultation to final quality control, allowing researchers and industry partners to focus on their broader project goals without needing detailed fabrication expertise.

Where is ANFF Optofab ACT located?

The facility is at the Australian National University’s Research School of Physics, at the end of Garran Road, Acton ACT 2601. It is co-located within the Laser Physics Centre building alongside the ANFF ACT node.

How do I request a quote or start a project with ANFF Optofab ACT?

Initial contact should be directed to Node Director A/Prof Steve Madden at the email address stephen.madden@anu.edu.au or optofab.act@anu.edu.au, or by calling +61 2 6125 8574. A preliminary discussion is encouraged to review project specifications and determine the best fabrication strategy before a formal quote is prepared.

What is the pricing structure for ANFF services?

Pricing follows the ANFFL Pricing & Access Policy, with optical coatings offered as a fully subsidised service. Custom optics and integrated chip fabrication are provided as at-cost services at ANFF rates. Prospective clients can review the node’s pricing details page on the Optofab ACT website or contact the team to discuss costs based on the specific complexity of a project.

Is ANFF Optofab ACT open for tours or visits?

Interested researchers, students, and industry partners are welcome. The facility encourages potential clients to get in touch to arrange a discussion, which can be conducted in person or via Zoom. This initial meeting helps the team understand project needs and share relevant information about tool capabilities and access pathways.

Clients and partners consistently benefit from ANFF Optofab ACT’s unique model of combining national research infrastructure with hands-on technical expertise. The facility stands as a critical enabler for optical innovation in Australia, bridging the gap between academic research and commercial-ready prototypes. For those investigating precision fabrication options in the ACT region, direct contact with the node is the most effective way to explore how their specific needs can be met. Viewing multiple providers on Ilistify helps ensure you find the right fabrication partner for your project’s requirements.