Minister for Defence Industry to attend 2017 International Astronautical Congress

Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, will attend the 2017 International Astronautical Congress in Adelaide today.

Minister Pyne said the 2017 International Astronautical Congress would bring more than 4,000 space professionals and enthusiasts together to discuss space issues and advancement.

“This year’s Congress would focus on secure access to satellites providing essential services, such as communications, timing, navigation and remote sensing,” he said.

“Through its diverse and extensive program of sessions and activities, the Congress will showcase space technologies, innovations, and ideas from around the world, including from Australian Government agencies’ space capabilities and Australia’s civil space sector.

“This is the second time the International Astronautical Congress has been held in Australia and there’s no more fitting place than Adelaide to host this first-class international event, with South Australia’s proud history in Australia’s space development.”

In addition to a walkthrough of the exhibits on display, Minister Pyne will open the panel session on ‘The evolving relation between Public Procurement and Industry on Space and Defence programs’ at the Global Networking Forum, as well as deliver the keynote speech at the Annual Awards Dinner of the International Institute of Space Law.

Minister Pyne said the Government was progressing its review of Australia’s space industry capability, while continuing with its program of investing in Australia’s space capabilities, including within Defence.

“This Congress is a fantastic opportunity for Australian industry to showcase its talents in space,” Minister Pyne said.

“I look forward to engaging with the world’s leading space experts and seeing the exciting space opportunities on offer.”

The International Astronautical Congress is the world’s largest annual gathering of space professionals, and has been held every year since 1950. Its parent organisation is the International Astronautical Federation, based in Paris, France.

For more information on the 2017 International Astronautical Congress visit: www.iac2017.org