The Rapid Australian Production & Integration for Distributed Space (RAPID) agreement, will bring advanced space technology manufacturing to Western Sydney – delivering jobs and promoting the development and adoption of innovative technologies.
Under the leadership of the Minns Labor Government, Bradfield is fast becoming a city for high tech innovation.
Space Machines Company will commence high-value manufacturing projects at the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility’s (AMRF) this year, with the aim to develop hyperscale production capability to produce satellites which are used to repair other satellites in long term orbit.
It’s expected the AMRF will support Space Machines Company to initially produce more than 30 units annually, with production expected to scale up to hundreds of units per year by 2030.
We’re also exploring opportunities for Space Machines Company at Bradfield’s Second Building and looking at establishing a dedicated Hyperscale Satellite Production Facility in Bradfield City.
The RAPID agreement also prioritises the development of a shared roadmap to build sovereign space manufacturing capability, open new market opportunities, and align with the strategic objectives of both the Australian and NSW Governments.
Partnerships like this support the delivery of high-quality jobs and advanced industries delivering economic benefits for Western Sydney and NSW.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, the Hon. Paul Scully said:
“This landmark agreement will help build vital skills and a capable workforce in Western Sydney, creating jobs, accelerating innovation and delivering real outcomes for local people.
“By linking global industry partners with the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility, we are equipping NSW with the training, equipment and expertise needed to produce world-leading technologies.
“This partnership marks a transformative step in making Australia’s newest city a leading centre for high-tech manufacturing, workforce development, and sustainable economic growth.”
Minister for Industry and Trade, the Hon. Anoulack Chanthivong said:
“This is a direct example of how scaling and retaining innovative businesses strengthens NSW’s economy, driving job creation, building resilience and ensuring the state is globally competitive.
“While early-stage businesses play an important role in our innovation ecosystem, NSW must retain these businesses as they grow, maximising their direct and spillover benefits.
“Once they achieve scale, businesses like Space Machines Company can help deliver significant economic returns and substantial export income, attract world-leading talent, and contribute to a robust local innovation ecosystem.
“This is all part of our plan to boost innovative manufacturing in NSW, set out in our NSW Industry Policy and NSW Innovation Blueprint 2035.”
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement and Acting Minister for Western Sydney Courtney Houssos said:
"This partnership is an example of how the Minns Labor Government is transforming Bradfield into a hub for high-tech innovation.
"For too long, domestic manufacturing was neglected by the previous Liberal National government. The Minns Labor Government is committed to reversing that legacy. We’re rebuilding a strong, manufacturing sector right here in NSW.
"This investment will deliver high-value, skilled jobs for Western Sydney and help grow a future-focused economy. It’s about creating opportunities for local workers in advanced industries that will define the decades ahead.”
Chief Executive Officer of Space Machines Company, Rajat Kulshrestha said:
“Western Sydney is the ideal location to establish Australia’s sovereign space manufacturing capability. Through our partnership with BDA and the AMRF, we are not just building satellites – we’re creating the critical infrastructure that will safeguard space for Australia and our allies.
“Space production at scale is essential for national security in the modern era. This partnership enables us to build from tens of spacecraft annually and scale toward producing hundreds by 2030, giving Australia and allied nations the rapid response capabilities essential for protecting our critical space infrastructure.
“As space becomes increasingly contested, having sovereign manufacturing capability ensures we can both defend our interests and protect the space-based systems that underpin our modern way of life.“