Key Points
- The Space Policy Unit will coordinate Australia’s national and international civil space activities.
- The Australian Space Research Program will provide grants to support space research, innovation and skills development in areas of national significance.
Facts and Figures
Space technologies and expertise are an essential element in addressing many areas of national importance, including national security, climate change, weather, natural resource management, forestry and agriculture, and disaster management. In addition, the demand for both public and private services associated with space technology will continue to increase. Government leadership and investment in space science and earth observation will have important public good benefits.
The Space Policy Unit will provide advice to the government on civil space matters, including the coordination of Australia’s national and international civil space activities and linkages with international space organisations. The unit will coordinate the Australian Government Space Forum, a whole-of-government forum which meets twice a year.
The Australian Space Research Program will provide $40.0 million over four years through a competitive grants process. This will support projects and coordinate relevant Australian public and private research and development organisations, linking them with industry and international space agencies/organisations, where appropriate.
The program will provide competitive grants in two streams:
- Space Education and Development Grants of up to $1.0 million will support secondary and tertiary student space projects and education activities, including possible international educational opportunities and the establishment of national space education programs and centres of expertise.
- Space Science and Innovation Project grants of up to $5.0 million will support eligible consortia for collaborative space research and development projects that link to strategic national priorities and niche capability. Eligible consortia will comprise a university or research institution and at least one industry partner. International collaboration will be encouraged.
Back to Budget 2009-10