With a vision to make WA a leader in science and technology, the WA Government has committed a further $25 million to fund the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) over the next 5 years.
The funding was announced during Western Australia Space Week, which occurred in Perth Monday 25 November until Friday 29 November 2024.
ICRAR was established in 2009 to support Australia's successful bid for the world’s largest astronomical telescope, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), and to ensure that WA would capture the benefits.
The WA Government has now invested a total of almost $100 million in ICRAR and WA has transformed into a global hub for radio astronomy research, training, and innovation.
The new funding will enable ICRAR to conduct world-class research, achieving international recognition and driving advancements in knowledge and capabilities. It will also support the translation and implementation of research findings to deliver meaningful benefits to the Western Australian community and economy.
Radio astronomy is more than just stargazing, and has some 'down to earth' applications.
Expertise from the SKA, in WA's Murchison region, is now being used in sectors including defence, space, agriculture, marine and mining.
The support for ICRAR aligns with Future State: Accelerating Diversify WA, a strategy that includes science, technology and innovation as key enablers to help diversify WA's economy.
Learn more about WA's space industry.
