In a landmark achievement for South Australia’s space industry, local spaceport provider Southern Launch has received the green light for its Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex.
The Whalers Way launch facility, located on the Southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula near Port Lincoln, has been granted final planning approval by the South Australian Government, paving the way for rockets to be launched from the site by the end of 2025.
The announcement is significant step forward for the state’s space industry, positioning it as a key player in the global space ecosystem.
The decision comes after the Australian Government recently gave the site the go-ahead, following an extensive environmental approval process.
Work will soon start on construction of two new launch pads at the Whalers Way facility, which is expected to attract national and international launch customers.
Southern Launch CEO Lloyd Damp said the launch facility adds important sovereign capability to South Australia’s space sector, which already has companies specialising in component and satellite manufacturing, mission control and data analytics.
“The approval for the Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex is the final piece of the puzzle in creating an end-to-end space supply chain right here in South Australia,” he said.
“It’s safe to say we’re over the moon to bring an orbital launch facility to our state that could one day see missions launched to the moon and beyond.”
The Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex is set to become one of the most versatile launch sites in the world, offering access to polar and sun synchronous orbits. Approvals have been granted initially for up to 42 launches per year.
Minister for Defence and Space Industries Stephen Mullighan said the facility positions South Australia as a major player in the global space market and will generate significant economic benefits for the state.
“The approval of Southern Launch’s Whalers Way Orbital Launch Complex represents a significant milestone for South Australia, cementing our place in the global space industry,” Minister Mullighan said.
“The Eyre Peninsula site will attract companies from around the world, keen to take advantage of the unique positioning of Whalers Way for Earth monitoring.
“This will bring huge investment in the region, providing a boost for the local economy and creating ongoing jobs for the community.”
South Australia is also home to Southern Launch’s Koonibba Test Range, the first launch facility to be granted a licence by the Australian Space Agency.
Southern Launch has signed a number of deals with international companies to launch rockets from Koonibba, including leading Canadian rocket manufacturer Reaction Dynamics most recently.
