IAC Sydney 2025 paper: Advancing inclusion in space
- Jacqui Tyack
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Advancing inclusion in space: The Australian Space Diversity Alliance’s mission for a more equitable sector
Authors: Jacqui Tyack, Sheila Gough Kenyon, Eleanor Ingram
Abstract
The Australian space industry is undergoing rapid growth, yet inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) remain critical challenges. Established in 2024, the Australian Space Diversity Alliance (ASDA) is a national, non- profit organisation dedicated to supporting Australia's space sector to reflect the full breadth of our society. Through education, advocacy, and sponsorship, ASDA supports marginalised groups, fosters inclusive leadership, and helps organisations implement meaningful IDEA initiatives.
This presentation will share ASDA’s first-year achievements, challenges, and future strategies to foster a more diverse space industry. It will provide quantitative and qualitative insights, demonstrating how a collaborative, industry-wide approach can reshape representation and inclusion.
Key initiatives include:
Education; ASDA was a Diversity and Community Partner at 4 large space and defence events, invited to speak at 10 conferences, supported by 19 organisations, and reached thousands of Australians through events, social media and broadcast news. ASDA is developing education materials to inform industry and event partners, including a resource on making physical spaces and events accessible for Neurodivergent industry members.
Advocacy; ASDA promotes diversity in global space governance through contributions to United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) committees, International Astronautical Federation (IAF) panels, and participation in the UN Space4Women Expert Meetings. In 2024, ASDA surveyed industry professionals and students, revealing key barriers to inclusion, including gender pay gaps, lack of career progression pathways, and cultural biases. Results will be used to inform on-going initiatives, targeted solutions and advocacy aimed at addressing discrimination across the space sector.
Sponsorship; ASDA’s Board Observer Program supports early- and mid-career professionals from underrepresented backgrounds to gain governance experience.
Industry Pledges & Partnerships; Encouraging IDEA commitments from Australian space and government organisations, ensuring diverse representation at major conferences and in leadership positions. ASDA financially supports members of marginalised and under-represented groups to attend industry events.
Dr Sheila Gough Kenyon presenting the paper at IAC Sydney 2025
We need the next generation to help build a future that challenges ignorance and apathy. A way through is beyond political parties and instead enables partnerships and unilateral support.
Through industry consultations and grassroots engagement, the ASDA has secured industry pledges and partnerships; encouraging IDEA commitments from Australian space and government organisations. This harnessed a strong and committed coalition to help ensure diverse voices are represented across all aspects of the Australian space sector, including at major conferences and importantly in leadership positions.
This presentation will share lessons learned, recommendations, and real-world case studies that demonstrate how targeted initiatives are essential to improve innovation, decision-making, and workforce retention. The discussion will invite global collaboration, urging international space agencies, organisations, and industry leaders to integrate equity- driven frameworks into their core business and workforce strategies.
Read the full paper: