WA & Indo-Pacific Space and Cross-Industry Networking Reception

The WA & Indo-Pacific Space and Cross-Industry Networking Reception brought together more than 120 attendees from the space, resources, technology, education, and defence sectors for a sold-out evening of networking and discussion focused on emerging opportunities across Western Australia and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Held at ANZAC House in Perth, the event provided a valuable platform for fostering new partnerships, industry connections, and cross-sector collaboration.

The reception featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and panellists, including Australian Astronaut and 2026 Australian of the Year, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, alongside senior representatives from government, industry, and academia. Attendees also heard from leaders representing the Australian Space Agency, AROSE, Fugro SpAARC, LC60 AI, the UWA International Space Centre, the Department of Energy and Economic Diversification, and other organisations at the forefront of innovation within Australia’s growing space ecosystem.

Throughout the evening, speakers explored the increasing role of space technologies in driving outcomes across sectors including resources, energy, defence, education, and artificial intelligence. Discussions highlighted opportunities for trade, investment, workforce development, and international collaboration, while showcasing Western Australia’s growing capabilities and strategic importance within the regional and global space industry.

The sold-out reception reinforced the importance of cross-industry collaboration in accelerating innovation and economic growth, while providing attendees with valuable opportunities to connect with industry leaders and decision-makers. The event also highlighted IPSEN’s ongoing role in bringing together organisations and professionals from across the Indo-Pacific to foster partnerships and create opportunities in space, Earth observation, and advanced technology sectors.

Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australian of the Year | Australian Astronaut presenting in Perth
at the WA & Indo-Pacific Space and Cross-Industry Networking Reception
Enrico Palermo, Head of the Australian Space Agency
Dr Fiona Wood AO, Australian of the Year 2005 with Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Australian of the Year 2026
SEPA Director David Matrai acknowledging sponsors – Principal Partner – WA Invest & Trade – National Partners – Fugro SpAARC, LC60.AI, AROSE, Cyber in Space
Maria Rennie – British Consul General | Dr Brian Jones – Acting British High Commissioner | Colleen Altstock – US Consul General | Kajari Biswas – Indian Consul General with SEPA Director David Matrai
Panel Session with Chris Cubbage – SEPA Director 
Panelists: Angela Teale – Co-Founder and Strategic Advisor, Startsite | Jason Crusan – CEO, AROSE | Samuel Forbes – Director, Fugro SpAARC | Liz Smith – Principal, Joseph Banks Secondary College | Venkat Pillay – CEO, LC60
David Matrai – SEPA Director with Angela Teale – Co-Founder and Strategic Advisor, Startsite | Samuel Forbes – Director, Fugro SpAARC