The Forum will present a series of seminars and short courses to the wider sensor network research community with presentations provided by both local and international technology experts. Nicta's aim is to promote further innovation in the field of sensor networks.

With analysts predicting the market for sensor networks to reach US$60 billion by 2010, Nicta's sensor network program leader Dr Stan Skafidas, said Forum will be a valuable catalyst for Australia to capture a share of this growing market.

Intelligent sensor networks are relatively inexpensive electronic devices, which have the potential to create systems that can monitor what is happening in the environment, communicate with each other, and take action if necessary.

They are ideally suited to sustainable agriculture, water management and environmental monitoring. They can also be employed in industrial applications, for example to monitor machinery and infrastructure such as bridges, dams, and roads.

Nicta CEO Dr David Skellern said the technology has enormous potential for use in crucial areas such as water and environmental management.