The Federal Government has used the backdrop of the world’s leading space event, being held in Sydney this week, to shore up agreements with NASA and the European Space Agency.
Science, Technology and the Digital Economy Assistant Minister Dr Andrew Charlton said more than 7000 delegates from around 90 countries were attending the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025), which runs until Friday.
Dr Charlton said at the event the Government announced a mandate begin negotiations on a Cooperative Agreement between the European Space Agency and Australia.
“This would establish a formal mechanism for Australian businesses and researchers to access ESA’s space science program and missions, as well as for further European activity here in Australia.”
He said a treaty-level Space Framework Agreement between Australia and the United States had also been agreed.
“(This) opens the door to new opportunities for government, businesses and researchers to collaborate on joint projects with NASA and other American partners.”
Dr Charlton said the partnerships would help bolster and provide opportunities for Australia’s space industry, which was on show at the Congress, with 150 local organisations among a total of around 450 exhibitors.
He said the Australian space sector had a $4.6 billion annual turnover, and employed 17,000 people
“From a range of Aussie tech with tickets to the Moon – as well as launch and return missions, satellites and other cutting-edge science and research – Australia’s leading space organisations will be showcasing the innovation that exists in our space sector, as well as the contribution that space research and development makes for transforming adjacent industries as they address local and global challenges.”
Australian Space Agency Head Enrico Palermo said thousands of technical papers would be presented across the week, including more than 400 by Australian authors.
He said the week would culminate in IAC 2025 Space Day at the ICC for the public, with astronaut signings and hands-on STEM activations.
“The large turnout for IAC 2025 is testament to the desire for the international space community to collaborate with Australia, as well as the capability that we have to offer.”
