The Australian Space Agency and Thales have signed an agreement that sets out plans for cooperation in investment, research, development and commercial opportunities in the space sector.
Thales is a French company operating and investing in the Australian space and defence sectors, delivering satellite-based systems.
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said this Statement of Strategic Intent and Cooperation was an important step in the Morrison Government’s plan to create opportunities for Australian industry and new local jobs.
“Engaging with big international players like Thales will allow Australian businesses, including our advanced manufacturers, to carve out a place in the international space supply chain,” Andrews said.
“Space is very much an international game and for Australia to succeed we need to play to our strengths and have our businesses and researchers working cooperatively.”
Chief Executive Officer of Thales Australia Chris Jenkins said the company was looking forward to working with the Space Agency and harnessing the strength of its global expertise in the space sector to build Australia’s sovereign capabilities.
“Thales has been a long-term investor in Australia’s advanced technology sector, through comprehensive technology transfer and close collaboration with research agencies and specialised Australian SMEs,” Jenkins said.
“Together, Thales and the Australian Space Agency can build and develop the Australian workforce and SME sector to meet the future needs of the growing space economy.”
The Australian Space Agency has also this week signed a Statement of Strategic Intent and Cooperation with EOS Space Systems.
EOS specialises in the design, manufacture, delivery and operation of technology for Space Situational Awareness. It will establish further laser ranging sensors across Australia to increase the volume of space objects they track from 10,000 to 100,000 each week.