Gilmour Space Technologies has secured A$217 million (US$145 million) in private equity funding to support the next phase of growth in Australia’s domestic space industry, as the company advances plans to deliver sovereign launch and satellite capabilities.
The Series E round was jointly led by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation and Hostplus, with participation from the Future Fund, Blackbird, Funds SA, HESTA, NGS Super, Main Sequence, QIC and Brighter Super.
Founded on the Gold Coast, Gilmour Space is developing an end-to-end space capability covering the design, manufacture, testing and launch of rockets and satellites within Australia. Co-founder and Chief Executive Adam Gilmour said the investment reflected confidence in both the company and the country’s ability to build critical space infrastructure domestically.
“This investment reflects strong investor confidence in our team and in Australia’s ability to build and operate critical space infrastructure at home,” Gilmour said. “We’ve reached important technical and business milestones. Our focus now is on delivering reliable and regular access to space for customers both at home and abroad.”
The company’s recent milestones include Australia’s first sovereign orbital launch attempt from domestic soil, the successful on-orbit operation of its 100-kilogram ElaraSat satellite platform, and the establishment of the country’s first licensed commercial orbital launch facility in North Queensland.
Proceeds from the funding round will be used to continue development and qualification of the Eris orbital launch vehicle, expand rocket and satellite manufacturing, grow testing and launch infrastructure, and increase headcount to meet rising global demand for launch services.
NRFC Chief Executive David Gall said space technologies play a critical role in economic resilience and national capability. “Gilmour’s success will help secure Australia’s access to essential space services, strengthen our advanced manufacturing base, and create highly skilled jobs and opportunities in the region,” he said.
Hostplus Chief Investment Officer Sam Sicilia said the investment aligned with the fund’s long-term strategy. “This capital injection will help position Gilmour Space for its next phase of growth, enabling it to scale operations and advance technology development,” he said, adding it could deliver strong risk-adjusted returns for members.
Gilmour Space employs more than 220 staff and works with local universities, research organisations and hundreds of domestic suppliers as it seeks to build long-term sovereign space capability in Australia.
