The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), in collaboration with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) and the Australian Embassy in Manila, conducted a webinar on Australia’s space programs and postgraduate opportunities on 11 August 2025 as part of the Philippine Space Week celebrations.

The webinar drew more than a hundred participants from the scientific, academic, and professional sectors eager to learn about Australia’s space programs and postgraduate opportunities. Representatives from PhilSA, the Australian Embassy in Manila, and speakers from Australian universities such as The Australian National University, Adelaide University, University of Southern Queensland, and the University of Sydney shared their programs, opportunities, and prospects for collaboration in space science and technology applications (SSTA).

Austrade Trade and Investment Commissioner Ms. Bernice Vanguardia highlighted Australia’s growing role in space innovation and education development, noting the importance of collaboration with the Philippines in advancing SSTA. “Australia is a growing hub for in-space manufacturing and on-orbit servicing. The industry is worth about eight billion Australian dollars per year and growing fast. Through education and collaboration, we align with the shared goals of the Philippine Space Agency. On education and people-to-people links, I’m proud to say that Australia remains the top study destination for Filipinos,” Commissioner Vanguardia said.

Austrade Trade and Investment Commissioner Vanguardia express her delight at the continuous efforts of the Philippines and Australia in promoting cooperation in space initiatives, most notably on SSTA education development.

PhilSA’s flagship scholarship program, the Advanced Degrees for Accelerating Strategic Space R&D and Applications (AD ASTRA), was presented by Mr. Marco Melgar, Senior Science Research Specialist of the PhilSA Space Education and Scholarships Division. Since 2021, AD ASTRA has supported scholars in various SSTA disciplines, both locally and abroad, contributing to the country’s growing space science and research community.

The Australian Embassy in Manila also presented the Australia Awards, a prestigious scholarship program that provides up to 5,000 slots annually to outstanding individuals from over 150 eligible countries. Mr. Rollie Dela Cruz, Portfolio Manager of the Australia Awards, explained that 40 to 60 Filipino scholars are expected to pursue postgraduate studies in Australia each year under the program, with a key priority placed on supporting initiatives aligned with the advancement of SSTA. These opportunities aim to equip scholars with the knowledge and skills to drive positive change in their communities.

Representatives from the abovementioned universities also presented their flagship programs in SSTA. Each institution introduced their undergraduate and postgraduate offerings in engineering, space science, and technology—emphasizing not only the availability of scholarships and financial aid to make advanced education more accessible to international students, but also their cutting-edge curricula and strong academic foundations. Delivered by a network of seasoned educators, advisers, and industry trainers, these programs ensure that students receive top-tier education and mentorship.

The institution speakers included Ms. Wai Yen Chan, Southeast Asia Regional Manager of The Australian National University; Ms. Karen Cate Adanza, In Country Manager-Philippines of the University of Southern Queensland, Mr. Harris Gunawan, Student Recruitment Manager of the Adelaide University, and Ms. Wendy Zhang, Asia Recruitment Officer of the University of Sydney.

In her closing remarks, Atty. Noelle Riza Castillo, Director of PhilSA Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau (SPICB), expressed optimism about the future of Philippine-Australian cooperation in space education, specifically about the growing opportunities in Australia for aspiring students and researchers in SSTA. She concluded the session with a message of encouragement, wishing participants success in their academic and professional pursuits: “Whether you’re just beginning your journey or already charting your course in space science, technology, and applications, know that you are not alone. We are here to support you, guide you, and to cheer you on as you reach for the stars—and may your dreams always be as countless as the cosmos.”

PhilSA SPICB Director Castillo expresses her appreciation to the webinar’s organizing committee and attendees for their active participation and engagement throughout the virtual event.

The webinar recording may be viewed through the PhilSA Youtube page.