A$2.1 million National Space Industry Hub will be established at Sydney’s Tech Central precinct, to boost the growth of NSW’s emerging space industry ecosystem.
“NSW is home to more than a third of Australian space startups, well-established research infrastructure and world-class universities. There is no better place to research, develop and commercialise space technology,” said NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres.
“The National Space Industry Hub will be the nexus between industry and researchers, housing both the Space Industry Association of Australia and the NSW Node of the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre.”
The announcement follows the recent NSW Government investment of $1.4 million to establish the NSW Space Research Network, also to be anchored at the Hub.
Sydney-based incubator Cicada Innovations has been selected to operate the Hub following an extensive application and review process.
Cicada Innovations CEO, Sally-Ann Williams, said Cicada Innovations was the best place in Australia to build a deep tech business.
“Beyond our own custom facilities, we can also access specialised facilities through our shareholder universities, ANU, USYD, UNSW, and UTS. This includes the UTS Tech Lab, USYD’s aerospace, mechanical and mechatronic facilities, and ANU’s heavy ion accelerator.
“Housing the National Space Industry Hub will allow us to create a home for emerging space ventures in NSW.
“More importantly, we’ll offer these resources, mentoring opportunities and vital connections nationally through continued collaboration across the Australian space ecosystem for anyone on the path of creating a space tech venture,” added Williams.
Hub participants will have access to:
- free online commercialisation training programs
- industry events
- a network of mentors
- short-term acceleration
- affordable long-term incubation.
The Hub will offer on-site facilities such as secure labs, clean rooms and rapid prototyping facilities.
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