Adelaide, 14 July 2025 – A new chapter in Australian space capability is unfolding.

In a landmark announcement, Optus has revealed that it will lead a consortium to build, launch, and operate a sovereign low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite by 2028, signalling a bold step forward for Australia’s space ambitions. The satellite will be built by Inovor Technologies at the cutting-edge Lot Fourteen precinct in Adelaide, where the energy of youth meets engineering excellence.

This landmark project brings together a powerful consortium led by Optus, joined by Inovor Technologies, HEO, the iLAuNCH Trailblazer Universities Program, the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), and other academic and government partners.

This is where innovation meets heritage!

Optus, with four decades of experience operating geostationary satellites and connecting millions across the region, brings unmatched operational heritage and credibility. Inovor Technologies, a rapidly scaling space company with a passionate team of young engineers and deep R&D capabilities, will design and manufacture the spacecraft, marking its biggest leap yet in satellite development.

The goal: to establish a sovereign LEO capability that strengthens Australia’s position in the global space landscape.

“This project is a great example of industry, academia and government coming together to develop groundbreaking space technologies to catapult the Australian space sector forward,” says Dr. Matthew Tetlow, CEO – Inovor Technologies.

The Optus-led consortium includes key players like HEO, iLAuNCH Trailblazer, SmartSat CRC, the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG), and top-tier Australian universities. This project isn’t just about a satellite but a symbol of what’s possible when sovereign capability, deep experience, and next-generation innovation combine.

Optus will operate the spacecraft from its Belrose Space Operations Centre in Sydney, while two advanced payloads are being developed through the iLAuNCH Trailblazer Universities Program and SmartSat CRC.

“By collaborating with Australia’s industry leaders across the public, private, and academic sectors, we can further advance the use of technology to solve problems, fuel growth, and define what’s next for the telco industry while supporting Australian businesses and Australian workers.,” said Nick Leake, Head of Satellite and Space Systems at Optus.

The project will:

• Accelerate advanced satellite manufacturing onshore

• Create new high-skill jobs

• Strengthen Australia’s national space sovereignty

• Showcase the power of local innovation on a global stage.

This is more than a satellite. It’s a signal to the world that Australia is ready to lead.

About Inovor Technologies
 Based in Adelaide, South Australia, Inovor Technologies is a trusted provider of satellite solutions, mission services, and advanced space technologies. As Australia’s preferred satellite manufacturer, Inovor Technologies deliver sovereign capability in space from design through to launch and operation.

To learn more, visit inovor.com or get in touch with Kavindi De Silva at info@inovor.com