At the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Sydney this week, representatives from Engineers Australia’s National Committee for Space Engineering (NCSpE) Peter Moar, Roger Franzen and Anntonette Dailey are presenting a paper outlining a long-term vision and strategy for building a sustainable Australian space industrial ecosystem.
According to NCSpE chair Peter Moar, associate membership of the European Space Agency (ESA) would provide a proven pathway to international competitiveness, replicating Canada’s success in leveraging ESA partnerships for industrial growth.
“We believe the fastest pathway to global competitiveness is membership of the European Space Agency, which would provide immediate access to world-class expertise, accelerate capability building and deliver long-term industrial returns,” Moar said.
ESA, an intergovernmental organisation dedicated to space exploration and technology development, currently has 22 full members and several associate and cooperating states.
Canada, an associate member since 1979, has developed a thriving space industry on the back of ESA collaboration, including its internationally recognised robotics and satellite programs.
Australia, by contrast, remains outside ESA and has historically lagged behind other developed nations in establishing a robust domestic space industry.
While the creation of the Australian Space Agency in 2018 signalled a renewed national ambition, the NCSpE argued that stronger international partnerships are essential if Australia is to overcome structural barriers such as geographic isolation, reliance on foreign supply chains and a relatively small industrial base.
The committee also stressed that investment in the space sector delivers flow-on benefits across the economy. High-complexity engineering skills and technologies developed for space from advanced materials and robotics to satellite communications and remote sensing can drive innovation, create jobs and boost national resilience in other critical industries.
The call comes at a time of heightened global competition in space, with the United States, China, India and European nations all rapidly expanding their capabilities. For Australia, joining the ESA could offer a direct route to participation in major international programs, while ensuring local companies and engineers gain access to contracts, expertise and research opportunities.
With the Sydney IAC showcasing Australia’s ambitions to the global space community, the NCSpE’s proposal adds weight to growing calls for government to pursue bolder international partnerships to ensure Australia does not fall behind in the race for space-based capability and economic opportunity.