The Australian Space Agency has added a renowned British satellite and communications company to its growing list of international partners.

The Agency and Goonhilly Earth Station signed a Statement of Strategic Intent and Cooperation in London; the fifth such signing follows the recent similar agreement with Lockheed Martin.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the agreement shows the Agency was already highly regarded as a valuable partner on the international stage.

"The name Goonhilly has long been associated with satellites and communications," Minister Andrews said.

"Goonhilly will establish an Australian registered company, with the intent to employ local research and development, engineering and other personnel, which includes seed funding to invest in Australian deep space communication assets to support Earth observation and advanced communications.

"The Coalition Government aims to triple the size of the local space sector to $12 billion by 2030, creating up to 20,000 new jobs. Agreements like this will help us to reach the first rank of space nations."

Dr Megan Clark AC, Head of the Australian Space Agency said, "We welcome Goonhilly’s intent to invest in communications, and research and development in Australia.

"The agreement will provide greater opportunities for technology transfer and the creation of local skilled jobs in the space sector."

Backed by the British Government, the Goonhilly Earth Station has 23 antennas at its ground station facility on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. Last year Goonhilly formed a partnership with the European Space Agency and Surrey Satellite

Technology Ltd to provide Commercial Lunar Mission Support Services to support lunar scientific development for both Europe and the rest of the world.

Strategic Statements of Intent and Cooperation led by the Australian Space Agency with industry partners are designed to highlight areas of investment and growth for Australia’s unique potential in space research and development and commercial applications.

The Liberal National Government established the Australian Space Agency in July 2018 as part of our plan to boost our economy and help create a further 1.25 million jobs in the next five years. That’s why we are investing $41 million over four years in the Agency’s development.

Media contact: Minister Andrews' Office (02) 6277 7070