Google will invest AU$1 billion (US$734.2 million) over the next five years into the local Australian technological development industry. The initiative, announced by Google CEO Sundar Pichai, will see investment directed into three main areas, including digital infrastructure, namely cloud computing, the tech giant’s first research hub in Australia, and technology partnerships, including working with the CSIRO to explore clean energy. “Australia has helped shape Google itself, from early work on Google Maps to progress on Chromebooks, Photos, Payments, and Fitbit today,” Pichai said in a press release on Nov. 16. “Partnerships like these will be at the heart of the Digital Future Initiative,” he added. “We believe a strong digital future is one where everyone has access to technology and the skills to use it, where the internet economy fulfils its immense potential, and Australia’s long tradition of innovation can grow and thrive.” Prime Minister Scott Morrison paid a …