Media Release:

Contact operations@spaceindustry.com.au

25 February 2022

SIAA Welcomes the Federal Government’s Commitment to Australia’s Space Future

The Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA) welcomes the significant commitment made today of more than $65 million by the Morrison government to further support Australia becoming a launch destination and getting Australian technology into space. SIAA also celebrates the ambitions of the government to have Australian astronauts back in space.

“Australians know how important space is every time they check a satellite weather forecast or turn on navigation in their car. Today’s announcements will support the Australian space industry and the booming space economy, it once more draws attention to the fac that Australia is open for space launch services.”

“Importantly, the Prime Minister is opening a door for the thousands of Australians who have the skills and ambition to make it as an astronaut and want to help human exploration and industry in space,” said SIAA CEO James Brown.

The government’s co-investment of $32 million to develop three new or existing spaceports or launch sites as well as the commitment to support the Australian space industry in ascertaining flight qualification is strong signal of support from the government.

Lloyd Damp CEO Southern Launch says, “today’s announcement by the Australian Federal Government lays the cornerstone of an enduring Australian space launch industry. Southern Launch looks forward to using the fund to develop critical infrastructure at our Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex and Koonibba Test Range that will one day support Australia’s first launch to the moon.”

Adam Gilmour CEO Gilmour Space Technologies said, “this funding will have positive flow-on effects for our entire space industry, and to Australia as a whole – not only in terms of jobs and opportunities, but also in enabling the sovereign development of new space technologies that will benefit all Australians. Gilmour Space is committed to helping the Australian space industry achieve low-cost access to space with the Eris Launch vehicle.”

SIAA’s CEO James Brown, is available for further comment.

-ENDS-

The Space Industry of Australia is the national peak body for the space industry in Australia. Formed in 1992, SIAA hosted the 2017 International Astronautical Congress in Adelaide which led to the establishment of the Australian Space Agency in 2018. SIAA and its member companies work closely with Australian governments, international partners, academia, and industry to advance Australia’s space industry and economy.

SIAA Welcomes the Federal Government’s Commitment to Australia’s Space Future – 25 Feb 2022