Backed by the ACT government, the expansion aims to boost collaboration, attract investment and build national capability in two sectors seen as vital for both economic growth and national security.
The hub’s new space program is designed to leverage Canberra’s unique advantages – proximity to leading research institutions, a highly skilled workforce and strong links to the federal government – to grow a thriving ecosystem of space-focused companies.
Michael Frater, chair of the Canberra Cyber Hub, said the initiative builds on the city’s proud space heritage and the hub’s track record in cyber.
“Our vision is for Canberra to be the gateway to space and a global leader in quantum – building on the Cyber Hub’s success to create a thriving advanced technology ecosystem,” Frater said.
Canberra’s role in the space sector stretches back to its support of the Apollo 11 mission and its ongoing contributions through the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex. Today, the region is home to more than 50 organisations active in the field, with the new program expected to attract further players and investment.
The push comes as the global quantum race accelerates, with Canberra-based firms Quintessence Labs and Quantum Brilliance already securing more than $100 million in combined investment. While quantum remains a key focus, the space program is set to play a central role in positioning the capital as a hub for Australia’s future space economy.
The Cyber Hub, originally established to strengthen Canberra’s cyber industry, has engaged more than 2,500 people through 26 events in the past financial year, supported graduate internships and launched new initiatives such as the Women in Cyber Day Awards. The expansion into space and quantum marks its most significant step yet in building Canberra’s advanced technology sector.