Space agency HQ could help diversify WA economy
Basing the new national space agency in Western Australia would help diversify its resources-heavy economy, the state government says.
WA Science Minister Dave Kelly released a report on Monday outlining the case for the federal agency to be based in the west.
The report concluded that that WA had the geographic advantages and know-how required to build a thriving space industry.
“Western Australia’s southern hemisphere location and latitude were ideal for space situational awareness and networks that required global coverage of space assets," the report said.
“Western Australia hosts substantial capability in the development and use of space derived applications and services. A major competitive advantage lies in applications in agriculture, mining, offshore oil and gas and remote operations and robotics.”
The report was commissioned by a Steering Group, chaired by WA Chief Scientist, Professor Peter Klinken AC, of stakeholders from the space sector, including the state’s four universities.
Mr Kelly said WA was the perfect fit.
“The report shows WA has the geography, capability and local expertise to have a thriving space industry," he said.
"Growing the space industry in WA will create local jobs, provide more opportunities for our local businesses and help diversify the WA economy.
The new national space agency was announced in the federal government's May budget.
AAP