What are focus sectors?
NSW has identified 9 focus sectors to attract investment and grow trade. We encourage businesses to get in touch to explore how we can support their plans to invest and grow in NSW.
This page explores defence and aerospace and why it’s a priority for NSW.
Learn more about the state's priorities
The defence and aerospace sector at a glance
NSW’s defence and aerospace sector is the largest contributor
Skilled defence industry direct employees – highest in Australia
The NSW Space Ecosystem
Sydney anchors Australia’s largest economy and Australia’s most advanced and connected space ecosystem. Across the state, world-class universities, a skilled workforce, and hundreds of innovative businesses work together to deliver success.
Event spotlight
International Astronautical Congress 2025
The 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2025) was hosted in Sydney from 29 September to 3 October 2025. Read the media release.
For only the eighth time in its 76-year history, this event - often called the “Olympics of space” - is being held in the Asia-Pacific, shining a spotlight on our region and opening doors to new investment and partnership opportunities.
As the largest and most prestigious global gathering in the space sector, the IAC attracts more than 10,000 delegates from over 100 countries - bringing together global industry leaders, heads of space agencies, international government officials, and academics - all in one place.
IAC 2025 is a rare opportunity to showcase Australia’s space industry on the world stage and highlight the key role of space-enabled services in everyday Australian life.
Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition 2025
The Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition is the region's premier commercial maritime and naval defence exposition, connecting Australian and international defence, industry, government, academia and technology leaders, in the national interest.
Indo Pacific 2025 was held from 4 to 6 November 2025 at the International Convention Centre Sydney.
The three-day event is a platform for engagement and incorporates an international industry exhibition, specialist conference program featuring presentations and symposia from leading maritime institutions and networking opportunities.
Why defence and aerospace matter in NSW
NSW has well-established strengths in research and development, product development, production, manufacturing, services and logistics capabilities across metropolitan and regional NSW, including:
- construction and manufacturing;
- maritime shipbuilding and sustainment;
- autonomous systems;
- aerospace design and engineering;
- space technologies and satellite systems; and
- sovereign cybersecurity capabilities.
The sector encompasses industries involved in the research, development, production and deployment of dual-use technologies.
Leading the nation in defence
NSW hosts the operational headquarters for the Royal Australian Air Force and the Australian Army, as well as the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Command. This is supported by world-class defence institutions and end-to-end supply chain capability.
All major defence prime contractors have a footprint in NSW which is highly attractive to international companies looking to enter the Australian defence ecosystem, and existing industry looking to scale their capabilities.
Strength in the space sector
Sydney NSW anchors Australia’s largest economy and Australia’s most advanced and connected space ecosystem. Across the state, world-class universities, a skilled workforce, and hundreds of innovative businesses work together to deliver success.
Eight universities run dedicated space programs, producing thousands of graduates each year. Many of these graduates go on to create or join the companies that power our industry, from manufacturing satellites and their components, to operating ground stations, developing earth observation algorithms, and running entire missions.
With strengths in advanced manufacturing, research and development, and mission operations, NSW gives you the best chance to grow, partner, and succeed in space.
Key facilities and programs
International partnerships
NSW companies are well placed to benefit from the Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) with the United States, which allows US rockets to launch from Australian soil. The agreement opens new opportunities for NSW businesses to supply components and technology for US space missions, from rocket parts to satellite systems.
NSW was also chosen to host the International Astronautical Congress 2025, the world’s largest space event, in recognition of its leadership in space, attracting investment and positioning NSW as a global hub for space collaboration.
Case study
Kongsberg Defence Australia
Learn how this global defence company is expanding in NSW.
How Investment NSW can help
We provide local and international businesses with free support, including:
- market intelligence and insights
- advice on NSW Government programs and approval processes
- connections with government and local business contacts
- help developing business cases
- identification of investment locations and potential partners
- coordination of familiarisation visits.
Get support
Looking to invest or expand in NSW’s defence or aerospace sector?
Contact Investment NSW to discuss your plans and connect with our support team.
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