KEY POINTS
- The Australian Space Research Program (ASRP), which is part of the Super Science – Space and Astronomy initiative announced in Powering Ideas – An Innovation Agenda for the 21st Century, will provide $40 million over four years through competitive grants to support space research, innovation and skills development in areas of national significance. The first round of the program closed on 4 December 2009 with a total of 37 applications received. The first grants are expected to be announced in February 2010. Round two of the program will open in March 2010.
- The Space Policy Unit (the Unit) provides advice to the government on civil space matters, and is the central point of contact and coordination of all civil space activities including fostering linkages with international space organisations. The Unit is also responsible for administering the ASRP.
- The Unit liaises with Government agencies on space matters, including coordinating Australian Government Space Forum – a whole-of-government forum that serves as a focal point for the exchange of information.
- The Unit has commenced work on the development of a national space policy, including engaging in a tender process seeking expert advice and analysis on Australia’s domestic space capabilities and strategic priorities.
- The Space Industry Innovation Council was announced on 19 November 2009 as part of the Government’s response to the Senate’s inquiry into the current state of Australia’s space science and industry sector.
- Dr Ros Dubs was announced as Chair of the Council on 25 November 2009, with the first Council meeting held on 10 February 2010.
FACTS AND FIGURES
The Australian Space Research Program 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 between $200,000 and $1 million will support 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 between $1 million and $5 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.
Space Industry Innovation Council
On 19 November 2009 the Government tabled its response to the inquiry of the Senate Standing Committee on Economics into the current state of Australia's space science and industry sector. The response commits to establishing a Space Industry Innovation Council (Space IIC), which was announced at the same time as the response. The Space IIC will be governed by the Industry Innovation Councils Framework developed by the Department.
The Space IIC will examine Australia's current civil space activities, risks and strategic priorities with a focus on Earth observation, satellite communications and navigation. Members will provide strategic advice to the Government on innovation priorities, champion innovation in the space industry, and build connections with other initiatives, including the Enterprise Connect network. The Space IIC will also consider relevant implications for space science and industry arising from the Defence White Paper and the National Security Science and Innovation Strategy.
The Chair and Members of Space IIC were appointed for their leadership, knowledge and expertise and come from business and professional organisations, science and research agencies, universities, and government.