The Federal government has launched the International Space Investment initiative, comprising grants of between $100,000 and $4 million for companies and research organisations to expand outside of Australia.
Total funding for the initiative is $15 million, and will be delivered in one round of funding.
The initiative aims to enable Australian-based space companies and researchers to find and pursue international space opportunities. The government hopes that this will lead to greater jobs and investment in the local space sector.
“Australia’s growing space industry will have significant economic impact in years to come, from increasing technological capability, strengthening the skilled workforce and increasing our export potential,” said Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews.
Specifically, the initiative will be looking for companies that seek to leap into international supply chains, or supply directly to international space agencies, according to the Head of the Australian Space Agency, Dr Megan Clark.
“The International Space Investment initiative will build the capacity of Australian space businesses, and demonstrate the sector’s ability to deliver products and services internationally,” said Andrews.
Applications for grants open on November 5, and close on December 17. Projects should not only have a commercial element, but go towards building an Australian space sector that motivates the space ecosystem and wider community in Australia.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they can successfully delivery on the project by highlighting experience finalising similarly complex projects.