To infinity and beyond

Australia can become a key player in the world’s booming space economy with the creation of a national space agency, the federal government says. The government says the move will help encourage investment and also aid in scientific discovery and development, as Australia turns its eyes to the heavens to create jobs.

AUSTRALIA can become a key player in the world’s booming space economy with the creation of a national space agency, the federal government says.

The government says the move will help encourage investment and also aid in scientific discovery and development, as Australia turns its eyes to the heavens to seize business opportunities and create jobs. It’s not a “man on the moon” exercise, nor will it be “another NASA”, Education Minister Simon Birmingham says, but a bid to provide co-ordination and leadership to the space sector.

“There’s a big role for science. There’s a big role for industry. We want to make sure Australia plays its part in both of those,” Senator Birmingham said.

The Australian space agency was confirmed at the opening of the 68th International Astronautical Congress in Adelaide and was welcomed by the global space community.

Its structure, location and cost will be determined following the government’s review of Australia’s involvement in the industry with a funding announcement likely in the May budget.

The space industry is worth $420 billion annually but Australia’s share is only 0.8 per cent.