Australian AI startup Breaker raises $2 million, led by Main Sequence
Breaker, an Australian Artificial Intelligence (AI) company focused on autonomous systems, has secured $2 million in pre-seed funding to accelerate development of its AI-powered robotics software. The investment was led by Australian deep tech fund Main Sequence.
The funding will enable Breaker to triple its team within six months and expand its operations in the United States, where the company has already established an office in Austin, Texas to serve defense clients. This expansion comes at a critical time as demand for advanced autonomous systems continues to grow across multiple sectors globally.
Redefining Robotics Through AI-Powered Software
Founded in 2023, Breaker is taking a unique approach to autonomy by focusing on software intelligence rather than hardware modifications. The company develops artificial intelligence software that enables robots to function more like humans—making decisions autonomously, adapting to changing environments, and collaborating effectively with each other and human operators.
What sets Breaker’s technology apart is its ability to allow a single operator to control up to 100 robotic systems simultaneously. This breakthrough multiplies the effectiveness of autonomous systems while reducing the human resources required to manage them.
“True autonomy isn’t just about building better individual robots, but about making them work together—and work seamlessly with humans,” said Matthew Buffa, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Breaker. “We believe that the future of robotics isn’t more hardware, it is smarter software that enables machines to collaborate and adapt dynamically, just like people do.”
On-Device AI for Enhanced Reliability
Unlike conventional approaches to robotics that rely on cloud connectivity or remote processing, Breaker’s platform embeds AI agents directly on devices. This architecture ensures robots remain functional even in disconnected environments, making the technology particularly valuable for defense applications and operations in remote locations.
The system’s on-device intelligence enables real-time, context-aware decision-making without the latency issues or connectivity vulnerabilities that plague many current autonomous systems. This resilience is especially crucial in high-stakes scenarios where reliable performance is non-negotiable.
“Autonomous systems in defence often fall short—frontline operators still micromanage robots, making them more of a liability than an asset,” added Buffa. “Meanwhile, Australia’s defence forces face a different challenge: smaller-scale operations and limited resources. Autonomy must be trusted, adaptable and seamlessly integrated into human teams.”
Strategic Partnerships Accelerate Innovation
Alongside the funding announcement, Breaker revealed several strategic partnerships that will accelerate the development and deployment of its technology:
- A collaboration with US-based SensorOps to utilize synthetic data and simulation platforms for enhancing autonomous defense applications
- Work with Airvolute to integrate Breaker’s AI agents into advanced drone platforms for tactical operations
- A research partnership with the Australian Institute of Machine Learning (AIML) focused on pioneering new approaches to intelligent and adaptive robotics
These collaborations will provide Breaker with access to specialized expertise, testing environments, and real-world applications that will help refine and validate their technology in diverse scenarios.
From Defense to Broader Applications
While initially focusing on defense applications, Breaker plans to expand its technology to other sectors where coordinated decision-making is crucial:
- Critical Infrastructure Security: Enabling comprehensive monitoring and rapid response capabilities across large facilities
- Search and Rescue Operations: Coordinating multiple autonomous vehicles to cover more ground efficiently during time-sensitive missions
- Agriculture: Optimizing farm operations through fleets of autonomous equipment that can work in harmony
- Mining: Enhancing safety and efficiency in challenging environments through intelligent autonomous systems
Mike Zimmerman, Partner at Main Sequence, emphasized the transformative potential of Breaker’s technology, said, “Today’s ‘autonomous’ systems still rely on bulky equipment, hard coded instructions and skilled operators, limiting their scalability, adaptability and ROI. By combining generative AI with robotics, Breaker adds a step change in intelligence to these systems and delivers enormous advantages in utility while democratising access to these systems. We see this ‘Physical AI’ as the next wave of what’s possible for autonomy.”
Australian Innovation with Global Impact
The company originated through the UNSW Founders Defence 10X program and received early backing from UNSW Founders and private equity firm Banksia. Breaker is currently a resident at Cicada Innovations, a deep tech incubator in Sydney.
The co-founding team of Matthew Buffa, Michael Irwin, and Vanja Videnovic brings together complementary expertise in AI, robotics, engineering, and defense. This multidisciplinary approach has enabled Breaker to develop solutions that address real-world challenges in autonomous systems rather than merely theoretical applications.
“By advancing AI-driven collaboration, we’re shaping the future of human-machine teaming,” said Buffa. “Our goal is to transform robots from passive tools into proactive teammates that can truly augment human capabilities in complex, dynamic environments.”
As autonomous systems become increasingly central to operations across industries, Breaker’s innovative approach positions the Australian startup to make a significant impact on the global stage, demonstrating how AI can bridge the gap between robotic potential and practical application.
