Gilmour Space Technologies has secured $217 million (US$145 million) in private equity investment to support the next phase of growth in Australia's domestic space capability.
The Series E round was jointly led by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC) and Hostplus, with participation from Future Fund, Blackbird, Funds SA, HESTA, NGS Super, Main Sequence, QIC, and Brighter Super.
Founded on the Gold Coast, Gilmour Space is building an end-to-end sovereign space capability spanning the design, manufacture, test, and launch of rockets and satellites in Australia.
Co-founder and CEO Adam Gilmour said: "This investment reflects strong investor confidence in our team and in Australia's ability to build and operate critical space infrastructure at home. We've reached important technical and business milestones. Our focus now is on delivering reliable and regular access to space for customers both at home and abroad."
Gilmour Space's milestones include Australia's first sovereign orbital launch attempt from home soil, the successful on-orbit operation of its 100-kilogram ElaraSat satellite platform, and the establishment of the country's first licensed commercial orbital launch facility in North Queensland.
Proceeds from the raise will be used to support continued development and qualification of its Eris orbital launch vehicle, scale rocket and satellite manufacturing, expand test and launch infrastructure, and grow the company's workforce to meet global demand for space launch services.
Why Space?
Access to space underpins modern economies, enabling critical services such as communications, navigation, climate and environmental monitoring, disaster response, and national security.
David Gall, CEO of NRFC, said: "Space technologies are fundamental to national resilience, economic productivity, and regional growth. Gilmour's success will help secure Australia's access to essential space services, strengthen our advanced manufacturing base, and create highly skilled jobs and opportunities in the region."
Hostplus Chief Investment Officer, Sam Sicilia, said: "As one of the nation's leading investors in domestic venture capital, we are committed to identifying opportunities that deliver long-term value for our members. This capital injection will help position Gilmour Space for its next phase of growth, enabling it to scale operations and advance technology development, creating potential for strong, risk-adjusted returns for our members."
Gilmour Space employs more than 220 staff, engages with local universities and research organisations, and works with hundreds of domestic suppliers to advance Australian manufacturing, create high-skill jobs, and build long-term sovereign space capability.
