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This year’s finalists have been announced for the Australian Space Awards 2026, with the annual program continuing to spotlight the people and organisations driving the nation’s growing space sector.
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The Australian Space Awards 2026 in partnership with Principal Partner Space Centre Australia, saw a confirmed total of 131 finalists across this year’s awards, marking the seventh instalment of the national program celebrating excellence in Australia’s space industry.
The awards recognise standout professionals and businesses contributing to the development of sovereign capability across a range of disciplines, from launch and satellite technology to telecommunications, energy and defence applications.
This year’s program features 14 individual categories and 16 group categories, ensuring broad representation from across the sector, including large listed companies, small to medium-sized enterprises, start-ups, research institutions and industry associations.
Click here to view the full list of finalists.
Finalists include representatives from leading organisations such as Fleet Space Technologies, Space Machines Company, Monash University, University of Technology Sydney, Hypersonix Launch Systems and a host of other organisations reflecting the depth of talent across both industry and academia.
Defence and Aerospace Lead at Momentum Media, Steve Kuper, congratulated the finalists saying, “Congratulations to all of the finalists, your work in shaping and growing Australia’s space industry demonstrates that the sky is no longer the limit.”
Participants were selected from across the space economy, with contributions spanning fields such as launch services, satellite systems, mining and resources, agriculture, disaster management and water security.
Principal partner, Space Centre Australia CEO, James Palmer said: “I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to all finalists of the Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 Awards. Your achievements reflect the strength, ambition and growing maturity of Australia’s space sector. It is through the dedication of individuals and organisations like yours that we continue to build a globally relevant, innovative and collaborative space ecosystem. We are proud to stand alongside you as the industry continues to push boundaries and create meaningful impact both nationally and internationally.”
Winners will be announced at a black-tie gala event scheduled for Thursday, 18 June 2026, at Hyatt Regency in Sydney, where industry leaders are expected to gather to celebrate the sector’s achievements and strengthen professional networks.
Being named a finalist is widely regarded as a significant accolade within the industry, offering national recognition and potential career advancement opportunities for individuals, while also boosting the profile of organisations operating in the sector.
Kuper added: “I am looking forward to celebrating with the best and brightest from across Australia’s space industry.”
Judging will be based on a combination of quantitative and qualitative criteria, including innovation, leadership, business growth, diversity and overall contribution to Australia’s space ecosystem.
The Australian Space Awards has become a key fixture on the industry calendar, providing a platform to highlight progress and collaboration as Australia continues to expand its role in the global space economy.
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