Strengthening Australia’s space sector would also strengthen the economy and defence

No country is better placed to capitalize on the growing push toward the final frontier of space than Australia. Becoming a premier commercial space launch site would not only provide significant economic growth but strengthen national security resilience. The government should leverage its geography, as well as the emerging fields of additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence, to encourage commercial space operations and develop strategic depth.

When talking to Australian space industry leaders, it is common to hear the phrase, “We can offer more than just land (launch sites) if we can get the political support.” However, Australia’s excellent geographical location is key to revitalizing the industry.

The country already has several space launch sites that have the potential to become hubs of the space industry, with surrounding business complexes that would facilitate launches. An orbital launch is expected later this year, after several suborbital trajectories, demonstrating the capacity of the launch sites. Their attractiveness is enhanced by Australia’s existing import-export infrastructure, which would connect the launch sites to global shipping networks.

One of the challenges in developing the Australian space industry is maintaining equipment. Given Australia’s relatively small manufacturing sector, it will need to source spare parts internationally, complicating maintenance logistics even with a robust import infrastructure.

One way to mitigate this is to move towards additive manufacturing, which can create just-in-time parts and repair assemblies with unique geometry. Delays would be minimised and customers would see greater value in using Australia as a launching point. This capability could then be applied to military equipment production, supporting the commercial viability of manufacturing operations and strengthening national defence.

Integrating cutting-edge AI into all aspects of the space industry is key. Collecting and applying mass data on component failure rates, production schedules, usage, etc. will also improve the efficiency of launch and maintenance operations. These cost savings will encourage growth and help ensure that the support industry surrounding Australian spaceports competes with international competition.

In addition, the processes that maintenance and logistics managers use to streamline the production, repair, and fabrication of complex space components can be applied to the armed forces and military production. Again, this provides commercial feasibility for a key national security technology and capability.

Agile manufacturing processes and AI-enabled efficiency will be key to supporting Australia’s small workforce. Australia’s workforce is generally well-educated and technologically savvy, but it is scarcer and more expensive than in neighbouring countries. Complementing a smaller workforce with AI-enhancing efficiency and agile manufacturing would make industries more responsive, ensure high-quality products and boost economic growth.

While the lack of experience in large-scale production can be seen as a weakness, it also creates opportunities. Australia would not need to use capital to change its current production processes, and there would be no vested interests opposed to changing to less labor-intensive production.

For the Australian space sector to thrive, the government must change policies to encourage industry and support the deployment of advanced technologies.

The establishment of the Australian Space Agency in 2018 was a critical first step on this journey, but more needs to be done. Increasing funding for the agency would enable it to expand its international presence, engage with overseas partners, develop a coherent Australian space policy and become a credible partner to the private space sector.

As Australia has near-ideal geographical conditions for space launches, government support for advertising to key overseas industry leaders, combined with initial support for local industry, would boost the sector, creating a virtuous cycle of investment.

Australia has the opportunity to boldly enter the space industry at the forefront. This requires political will and a coherent political strategy, but it would pay huge dividends. Expansion of the sector would not only generate economic growth but would diversify Australia’s economy, and its industrial sector in particular. These benefits alone justify the investment of time and resources. It would not be spending money on something that, although necessary, is not profitable.

It’s time to prioritize space.