The Queensland Government has announced its backing for a major testing and evaluation launch project in Western Queensland, under the $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund.
Queensland-based defence technology company, Black Sky Aerospace, has received $7.5 million to help deliver a new large-scale testing and evaluation launch site at its 3-million-acre range near Thargomindah, enabling defence and aerospace equipment to be safely tested in the state.
The facility will be Australia’s first and only privately owned horizontal launch and guided-weapons test and evaluation range.
Once operational in mid-2028, Black Sky’s MaxQ Phase 1 Infrastructure Program will provide domestic and allied users with access to large-scale test and evaluation infrastructure, with the Sovereign Industry Development Fund contributing to construction of a 2.5km runway, fixed and mobile launch infrastructure and secure explosive storage.
Black Sky’s project is expected to create around 60 jobs, including construction and ongoing operational roles, while strengthening regional supply chains and supporting economic activity in Western Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jarrod Bleijie said the Government was backing Queensland’s sovereign industries to strengthen Australia’s defence capability and grow the State’s economy.
“Through the Sovereign Industry Development Fund, we’re backing projects like Black Sky Aerospace that will build Queensland’s defence capability, create skilled jobs and cement our reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing and defence innovation,” the Deputy Premier said.
“This investment will enable critical defence systems to be tested here in Queensland, reducing reliance on overseas facilities while supporting local businesses, local workers and local supply chains.
“We’re investing in projects that are ready to deliver, attract private investment and position Queensland as the destination of choice for sovereign defence industries.”
Minister for Local Government, Water, Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers and Member for Warrego, Ann Leahy said the project would put Thargomindah on the map.
“Western Queensland is uniquely positioned to support Australia’s growing defence industry, and this investment recognises the enormous potential in Warrego,” Minister Leahy said.
“The Black Sky Aerospace project will place Thargomindah at forefront for defence testing and evaluation, attracting investment and supporting highly skilled employment for our region.”
Black Sky Aerospace CEO, Blake Nikolic said the investment would accelerate Australia’s sovereign testing capability.
“This project represents a significant step forward in establishing Australia’s sovereign testing and evaluation capability for defence and aerospace systems,” Mr Nikolic said.
“The MaxQ Test and Evaluation Range Infrastructure Upgrade will provide the defence and space industry with access to large-scale testing infrastructure not currently available in Australia, supporting local supply chains and enabling faster development.”
Construction will commence in late 2026, with operations to commence in 2028.
Further information about the Sovereign Industry Development Fund is available at https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/strategic-industries/funding-programs/sovereign-industry-development-fund.
