The Australian Space Agency continues to strengthen our space industry with the signing of a Statement of Strategic Intent and Cooperation with Lockheed Martin Australia.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the Agency’s fourth statement of strategic intent with an industry partner is another step forward as the Agency grows opportunities for investment in space systems and services.

“Lockheed Martin is an ideal partner to help achieve the Liberal National Government’s vision of tripling the size of Australia’s space sector to $12 billion by 2030, creating up to 20,000 new jobs,” Minister Andrews said.

“The Australian Space Agency is building on this strong relationship to provide more opportunities for technology transfer and the creation of local skilled jobs in the sector.

“This statement acknowledges Lockheed Martin Australia’s role in supporting the growth of the space sector with its provision of civilian products and services in areas such as data analytics, quantum computing, research and development and STEM programs.”

Today’s signing adds to agreements already reached with Airbus, Nova Systems and Siatel.

Dr Megan Clark AC, Head of the Australian Space Agency, welcomed this latest signing.

“The agreement with Lockheed Martin Australia will make a significant contribution to industry growth and will help to inspire the next generation of Australians through STEM education and community awareness programs focused on space,” Dr Clark said.

Rod Drury, Managing Director – Australia and New Zealand, Lockheed Martin Space, said the agreement highlighted Lockheed Martin Australia’s commitment to investing in partnerships with Australia’s research and industry communities while providing opportunities for technology transfer, innovation, local skilled jobs and sustainable business growth.

“The relationship with the Australian Space Agency further underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting the development of this exciting sector, which is rapidly emerging as a key enabler of Australia’s national security interests and the economy as a whole,” Mr Drury said. 

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.

As part of our plan to grow the economy and create more jobs for Australians, the Liberal National Government established the Australian Space Agency in July 2018 and is investing $41 million over four years in its development.

The Coalition investment in the Agency is part of an additional $2.4 billion to grow Australia’s science, research and technology capabilities in the 2018-19 Budget, including more funding to research agencies like CSIRO over the next four years.

The Coalition has invested $1.5 billion more into our science agencies than Labor when they were last in government.

Media Contact: Minister Andrews' Office 02 6277 7070