The State Government has announced it will commit a further $25 million to fund the International Centre for Radio Astronomy (ICRAR) over the next five years.
ICRAR was established in 2009 as to support Australia’s successful bid for the world’s largest astronomical telescope, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and to ensure that WA would capture the benefits.
Simon Ellingsen, ICRAR’s Executive Director, said, “I would like to thank the WA Government for their continued support in funding ICRAR for the next five years. This commitment is a testament to the achievements we have made with research, education, translation and impact in the field of radio astronomy and the SKA.
“This funding will allow us to continue to drive work-class research and scientific excellence and expand educational opportunities in Western Australia. We are excited about the future and look forward to building on this solid partnership to further elevate Western Australia’s position as a global leader in space science.”
This funding has enabled over 250 astronomers, researchers, engineers, and data experts to advance their fields, providing job opportunities and fostering a thriving scientific community in Western Australia.
ICRAR has supported the creation of nearly three hundred high-impact publications, with over 80 per cent involving international collaborations, further cementing WA’s reputation on the global scientific stage.
“Western Australia is fast becoming a global centre of excellence in radio astronomy, which is exemplified by ICRAR’s work and our hosting of the SKA”, Science Minister Stephen Dawson said.
“It is fascinating to see the cross-over between the work that ICRAR does and other priority sectors. I am excited to see how these technologies and diverse WA industries will continue to grow together in the coming years.”
The State Government’s continued support will enable ICRAR to conduct world-class research aimed at achieving international recognition, advancing scientific capabilities, and translating research outcomes for the benefit of Western Australia’s and economy.
Radio astronomy expertise from world’s largest radio telescope, SKA is now being translated to diverse domain’s including defence, space, agriculture, marine and mining.
