Australia and the UK have signed an arrangement to increase connection, exchange and investment between their respective space industries.
The Space Bridge Framework Arrangement focuses on areas such as government-to-government collaboration on space programs and technology, trade and investment – including commercial contracts and collaboration – and research and education.
It will also assist the development and use of satellite platforms and the application of space data, and enhance trade by supporting future pioneering space programs and technology to attract greater global investment in both sectors.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said The Space Bridge will connect Australian and UK expertise in the space industry by strengthening the cooperation between the Australian Space Agency, the UK Space Agency and each country’s trade and investment agencies.
“Australia’s space industry is innovative, globally competitive and growing at a rapid pace,” Minister Andrews said.
“The Space Bridge arrangement with the UK will allow us to continue that momentum, building on our shared strengths, leveraging individual expertise and creating jobs for the future.
“In addition to Australia’s strong manufacturing capabilities, our space priorities range from communications, to Earth observation, as well as robotics and automation – all of which can offer support to the UK’s space ambitions.”
Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency, said the agreement will showcase the strength of Australia’s space sector and will help propel the Australian civil space industry into its next phase of growth.
“The arrangement will open doors to build local capability, as well as significantly boosting our collaboration with the UK Space Agency,” Mr Palermo said.
Dr Graham Turnock, the Chief Executive Officer of the UK Space Agency, said the arrangement would ‘unleash innovation and promote knowledge exchange’.
“This will build relationships that will help both the UK and Australia maximise the vast economic and scientific potential that the space sector offers,” Dr Turnock added.
“It will also help create better opportunities and greater security for people in both nations.”
The Space Bridge Framework Arrangement was inked on 23 February at the British High Commission in Canberra and Westminster, in London, United Kingdom.
