Australia's vibrant space ecosystem is on show this week, as international agencies, companies, astronauts, scientists and engineers come together in Sydney for the world's leading space event.
More than 7,000 delegates from around 90 countries are attending the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025) at Sydney's International Convention Centre (ICC) from 29 September - 3 October.
As part of the event, the Government is announcing a mandate begin negotiations on a Cooperative Agreement between the European Space Agency and Australia. This would establish a formal mechanism for Australian businesses and researchers to access ESA's space science program and missions, as well as for further European activity here in Australia.
A treaty-level Space Framework Agreement between Australia and the United States has also been agreed - opening the door to new opportunities for government, businesses and researchers to collaborate on joint projects with NASA and other American partners.
These partnerships will help bolster and provide opportunities for Australia's space industry. The Congress's 'Australia Zone' is showcasing 150 Australian organisations among a total of around 450 exhibitors. The Australian space sector has a $4.6 billion annual turnover, and employs 17,000 people
From a range of Aussie tech with tickets to the Moon - as well as launch and return missions, satellites and other cutting-edge science and research - Australia's leading space organisations will be showcasing the innovation that exists in our space sector, as well as the contribution that space research and development makes for transforming adjacent industries as they address local and global challenges.
Thousands of technical papers will be presented across the week, including more than 400 by Australian authors.
The week will culminate in IAC 2025 Space Day at the ICC for the public, with astronaut signings and hands-on STEM activations. More than 6,000 people have already registered for this day of free fun.
IAC 2025 is organised by the International Astronautical Federation and is hosted by the Space Industry Association of Australia.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres:
"IAC 2025 is a terrific opportunity to show the world how much momentum and growth has been achieved in the Australian space sector in the eight years since the Congress was last held here.
"The exhibition hall will showcase the cutting-edge technologies that Australian space research has developed, important as well for their transformative downstream applications for Australian industries on the threshold of the shift to a high-skilled, less carbon-intensive economy.
"Strengthening Australia's international partnerships with NASA and the European Space Agency creates new opportunities for Australian ideas and technologies, improving Australia's industrial capability, boosting productivity, and building economic resilience."
Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Science, Technology and the Digital Economy, Dr Andrew Charlton:
"The space industry delivers vital services to all Australians. It underpins the success of many industries that are critical to growing productivity and securing Australia's future prosperity.
"IAC 2025 is a great opportunity to showcase Australia's exceptional talent and connect with partners on the global stage - creating commercial opportunities and high paying jobs across the country."
Quotes attributable to Head of the Australian Space Agency, Enrico Palermo:
"The large turnout for IAC 2025 is testament to the desire for the international space community to collaborate with Australia, as well as the capability that we have to offer.
"This week is a chance to not only show how far our industry has come, but to cement new opportunities that will see it continue to grow for the benefit of all Australians."
