NASA and Australian Space Agency Formalize Enhanced Space Cooperation in Sydney

Historic Agreement Signed at IAC 2025

Sydney, Australia – A significant step in international space collaboration was taken on September 30, 2025, as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Australian Space Agency formalized a new framework agreement. The signing occurred during the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025), currently underway in Sydney, Australia. This agreement is set to enhance cooperation in aeronautics and the peaceful exploration and use of outer space between the two nations.

The 'Framework Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Australia on Cooperation in Aeronautics and the Exploration and Use of Airspace and Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes' was signed by Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy and Australian Space Agency Head Enrico Palermo.

Broadening Horizons for Collaboration

The newly inked agreement establishes a legal framework for expanded joint efforts, building on a history of collaboration that dates back to 1960. Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, 'Australia is an important and longtime space partner, from Apollo to Artemis, and this agreement depends on that partnership.' He added that such international agreements are 'critical to NASA's plans from low Earth orbit to the Moon, Mars, and beyond,' by leveraging resources and increasing scientific returns.

Potential areas for cooperation outlined in the agreement are extensive and include:

• Space exploration
• Space science
• Earth science, including geodesy
• Space medicine and life sciences
• Aeronautics research
• Technology development

Benefits for Australia's Growing Space Sector

For Australia, the agreement is expected to significantly bolster its burgeoning space industry. Australian Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science Tim Ayres highlighted that strengthening the partnership with the U.S. and NASA 'creates new opportunities for Australian ideas and technologies, improving Australia's industrial capability, boosting productivity, and building economic resilience.'

The Australian space sector currently boasts a $4.6 billion annual turnover and employs 17,000 people. This framework agreement, alongside ongoing negotiations for a cooperative agreement with the European Space Agency (ESA) also announced at IAC 2025, underscores Australia's commitment to expanding its role in the global space economy.

A Legacy of Partnership

The collaboration between NASA and Australia has a rich history, notably with the Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex playing a pivotal role in supporting NASA's Apollo Program, including the critical Apollo 13 mission. Today, the complex remains one of three global stations in NASA's Deep Space Network, supporting both robotic and human spaceflight missions. This new agreement is poised to build upon this strong foundation, propelling both nations into a new era of shared space endeavors.