The objective of the Centre for OpenSource Development is to promote the use of open source software within the University and the wider community. CQU is committed to encouraging students, staff and professionals to engage in the development of open source software for the benefit of all.

Whether you are are still at school, studying at university, working in a profession or just using the Internet for fun, open source software will have an impact on your daily lives. Many people are already using open source software and do not know it. Many companies, governments, educational institutions, etc are adopting open source solutions to reduce their Total Cost of Ownership commitments.

In an open source environment, developers provide software under a variety of licenses, most of which are free. After releasing software, the community who uses the software has a lot of input into further developments, by suggesting improvements back to the developers and even becoming part of the team to produce enhancements. The motivation behind developing open source software varies: some programmers promote their programming skills by distributing software, others do it as a hobby. Many firms develop basic software packages, and then 'sell' their expertise in customising, maintaining and training others who use their systems.