Our strategic vision for the Australian space sector is a globally responsible and respected sector that lifts the broader economy, and inspires and improves the lives of Australians.
We were established on 1 July 2018 to coordinate civil space matters across government and support the growth and transformation of Australia’s space industry.
The Australian Space Agency’s mission
The Agency is the heart of space in Australia.
We work across government, industry and academia to advance Australia’s position in the global space economy, and we do this through:
- Technical expertise and direction
- International engagement
- Funding opportunities
- Policy advice to government
- Regulating Australian space activities
- Initiatives to ‘Inspire’ the nation and build a future space workforce.
The Agency uniquely knits together space expertise along with technical, policy, international engagement, regulatory and communications specialisations.
Space areas of interest
Australia has several advantages that make us a great place to do space. Below are some of the areas where Australia has a competitive edge or a strategic interest.
While Australia is fortunate to have abundant GNSS satellite coverage, its use must be combined with additional Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) technology that supports critical systems and infrastructure. Meeting this national need gives Australia a major opportunity to establish itself as a trusted provider of reliable, resilient, and accurate PNT services.
As the world’s sixth-largest country, Australia relies on Earth observation data to help manage its vast territory. Investing in better Earth observation technology will improve weather forecasting, farming, natural disaster responses, climate change management, and more – which all directly contributes to a resilient Australian economy.
Australia is committed to leading in today’s digitally connected world with secure, reliable, and innovative satellite communications services. This includes emerging technologies like optical and secure quantum communications, and hybrid radio and optical communications.
To help mitigate the increasing risk of collisions in space, Australia will develop Space Situational Awareness solutions that track and predict object trajectories, monitor the natural space environment, and support space traffic management. Australia will also help advance space sustainability and prevent space debris creation through responsible missions – with improved tracking, maneuverability and end-of-life management.
Applied space medicine and life sciences
Australia has strong space research and development (R&D) capability, which we recognise as a great catalyst for sector transformation and leapfrogging into new areas of innovation. Applied Space Medicine and Life Sciences is a prime example that can unlock new possibilities for space exploration and contribute to better health outcomes on Earth.
Australia’s expertise in large-scale remote asset management and Earth-based robotics in harsh environments means we are well-placed to lead delivery of foundation services and exploration services, while capturing high-tech manufacturing opportunities. We are also committed to doing this in a manner that supports the long-term sustainability of outer space.
A key element of Australia’s space aspirations is to become a recognised destination of choice for orbital launch. Australia will also develop and operate sustainable space platforms and transportation systems, which will increase access to space activities and boost the value that can be derived from them.
Meet our Executive team
Leadership
Meet our Executive team
The Head of Agency is supported by a Senior Executive Leadership team.
Our partnerships
Strengthening space ties
Our partnerships
The Australian Space Agency is the heart of space in Australia, working to advance the country's position in the global space economy.
Hidden in the stars
Indigenous constellations and the story of the Australian Space Agency logo
There is a strong link between space and Australia’s Indigenous people who are essentially the world’s oldest astronomers. For thousands of years the sky has been critical to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in dictating seasonal activities around food and movement, and a reflection of what is happening on the land.
This animated video tells the story of the Australian Space Agency’s brand identity.
At first glance, the logo appears as a satellite view of Australia. The dots alluding to the light created from human life and industry, which the Agency will support. But hidden within the dots are several significant Indigenous constellations that can be seen if we look up across Australian skies.
The brand captures Australia’s powerful cultural heritage and the spirit of the Agency — one that will look to space to provide real improvements for life on Earth.
There is a strong link between space and Australia’s Indigenous people who are essentially the world’s oldest astronomers. For thousands of years the sky has been critical to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in dictating seasonal activities around food and movement, and a reflection of what is happening on the land.
This animated video tells the story of the Australian Space Agency’s brand identity.
At first glance, the logo appears as a satellite view of Australia. The dots alluding to the light created from human life and industry, which the Agency will support. But hidden within the dots are several significant Indigenous constellations that can be seen if we look up across Australian skies.
The brand captures Australia’s powerful cultural heritage and the spirit of the Agency — one that will look to space to provide real improvements for life on Earth.
Public consultations
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